Thomas Benson

Thomas Benson was born in Ardmore, Oklahoma, and played at Ardmore High School. He played linebacker at Oklahoma, and Atlanta drafted him in the second round, 36th overall, in 1984. He played nine NFL seasons with four teams: Atlanta (1984–1985), San Diego (1986–1987), New England (1988) and the Los Angeles Raiders (1989–1992). He finished with 12.5 sacks, three interceptions and seven fumble recoveries. Note: the infobox and text give different birth dates. Pro Football Reference (PFR) lists him as Thomas Carl Benson: born September 6, 1961 in Ardmore, OK; high school Ardmore (OK); 6-2, 238 lb; position RLB. PFR shows him with ATL 1984-85, SDG 1986-87, NWE 1988, RAI 1989-92 (120 games, 72 starts, 41 Approximate Value). PFR stat line: 9 yrs: 3 Int (61 yds, long 25), 10 FF, 7 FR, 12.5 sacks; postseason 3 G, 2 GS. PFR shows no Pro Bowl or All-Pro honors. PFR also notes: header wAV 37 (3008th since 1960). The Oklahoman wrote on March 28, 1982: "The Sooners' strength on defense should be tackle Rick Bryan, and junior linebackers Jackie Shipp and Thomas Benson, still proclaimed as the best pair OU has had at any one time."