The Peanut Punch.

Every week in the NFL, there is a contest where the announcer references those three words when a defensive player punches the ball out of a carrier’s arm, resulting in a forced fumble.  It is part of the football lexicon and is practiced by every defender in football.  It all began with Charles “Peanut” Tillman.

From Louisiana-Lafayette, Tillman was Chicago’s Second Round Pick in 2003, and became their starting Left Corner as a rookie.  A takeaway machine with his ball-stripping skills, Tillman also was a competent ball hawk who had 38 Interceptions, eight of which were returned for pick-sixes.  Tillman was twice named to the Pro Bowl (2011 & 2012), the latter year where he co-led the NFL in Forced Fumbles (10), and Interception Return Touchdowns (3), and was a First Team All-Pro.

Peanut might be unlikely to enter Canton, but his imprint on the National Football League will forever be felt.

Charles Tillman would spend the majority of his career as one of the top Defensive Backs of the Chicago Bears.  Tillman would pick off Quarterbacks 38 times in his career, and would represent the Bears in the Pro Bowl twice.  Known for his ability to strip opponents of the ball, the former Rajin’ Cajun would also be named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2013, a prestigious honor and one that speaks to his character.

A very significant retirement took place in the NFL that perhaps is not getting the attention it deserves. 

Now former Defensive Back, Charles Tillman has announced that he is calling it a career after thirteen seasons, all but one of with were with the Chicago Bears.

Tillman was drafted in the second round in 2003 and quickly the Cornerback would be forced to compete against elite wideouts in the NFC North.  Tillman would accumulate 38 Interceptions and in 2012 was named a First Team All Pro.  He was also a two time Pro Bowl Selection. 

While he may not have the credentials to be a future Pro Football Hall of Famer, he will eligible in 2021 for those inclined to vote for him.

We here at Notinhalloffame.com would like to thank Charles Tillman for the memories and wish him best on his post-NFL career.