It’s a shame that such a talented linebacker only lasted a single season in the NFL. He was drafted by the Bengals in 2005 out of the University of Georgia, and mad an immediate impact.
During the 11-5 campaign, Thurman played in all 16 games, recording 98 tackles, a sack, five interceptions, forced four fumbles and scored a touchdown. That’s getting off to a hot start.
Unfortunately, that would be the only time on the field Thurman would see.
Following the 2005 season, Thurman seemingly tried to get in trouble. He was suspended for the first four games of 2006 for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and the suspension was later extended to the entire season after he immediately followed that with a drunk driving charge.
Thurman applied for reinstatement prior to the 2007 season. He was denied after reports surfaced that he was involved in an assault in Georgia. 2008 rolled around, and the same thing happened.
Prior to the 2009 season, Thurman was finally reinstated, but was dropped by the Bengals. Most believe this happened because Thurman was not at OTA’s, which are not mandatory. He would eventually fail yet another drug test, and is serving an indefinite suspension from the NFL.
He currently plays in the UFL for the Virginia Destroyers.