Derrek Tuszka

Derrek Tuszka's Biography

Derrek Tuszka, born July 11, 1996, is a talented American football player who has excelled in the position of a linebacker. He is currently an independent player or a free agent. This detailed biography talks about his journey through different stages of his career and the impact he made at each point.

Born and raised in South Dakota, Tuszka’s foundation in football was established during his high school years at Warner High School in Warner. With the skill and dedication he demonstrated, he earned himself a commitment with North Dakota State on April 22, 2014. A new chapter of his life and career began then, marking his entrance into college football.

During his tenure with North Dakota State, Tuszka proved himself as an exceptional player and a significant addition to the team. He didn’t just play for North Dakota; he gradually became one of their strong pillars, rising as a starter for three years. As he hit his senior year in 2019, his expertise shined through his extraordinary performance. He recorded stats impressing the entire football circuit, including 48 tackles—19 of them being tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, one forced fumble and successfully defensed five passes.

Substantiating his performance were the accolades that he received. He was honored as a first-team All-American in the Football Championship Subdivision. Additionally, he was also recognized as the Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Throughout his collegiate career, he confirmed his dominance in the game by starting 34 of the 53 games he appeared in. His remarkable contributions tallied upto 133 tackles, 42 tackles for loss, 29.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and six passes defensed.

Tuszka’s outstanding performance at college level opened the doors to the prestigious National Football League (NFL). He was chosen by Denver Broncos, one of the premier teams, as the 254th pick in the seventh round of the NFL 2020 draft. In a surprising turn of events, however, he was waived on September 5, 2020, but immediately joined the practice squad the next day.

He was brought back to the active roster for the September 14 game against a formidable opponent, the Tennessee Titans. After the game, he returned to the practice squad but was elevated again for the week 2 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This stay-put didn’t last long, as he soon returned to the practice squad post the game. However, his undeniable talent couldn’t keep him off the active roster for long, and he was promoted again on September 30, 2020.

Tuszka’s active play was hampered by a hamstring injury, placing him on injured reserve from October 27, 2020. However, demonstrating his strong will and determination, Tuszka overcame his injury and was brought back from injured reserve on December 12, 2020.

Unfortunately, the Broncos waived Tuszka on August 31, 2021. However, the following day, he didn’t just find himself back into a team but also got associated with a power-packed team; he joined the Steelers practice squad. Proving his worth once again, he secured a promotion on September 28, 2021.

The following year, Tuszka faced release from the Steelers on September 1, 2022. However, within a day, he was claimed off waivers by the Titans. Despite a short stint, as he was waived again on September 26, 2022, he quickly bounced back when the Los Angeles Chargers claimed him off waivers.

In conclusion, Derrek Tuszka’s career journey demonstrates heavyweight talent, strong determination, and a continuous strive to excel in the opportunities presented to him. Even in the face of challenges and shifts, Tuszka ensures he stands strong, both on the field and in his career.