Former All-Pro NFL defensive back Charles Tillman decided to close the book on his football career last year, but that does not mean he is going to spend the majority of his time playing golf or lounging poolside.
Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune was told by multiple sources — including on high-ranking law enforcement official — that Tillman has been training to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Yes, the FBI.
As Biggs notes, FBI guidelines state that respective candidates who wish to become a special agent must be between the ages of 23 and 37, so Tillman would just make the cut. The former Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers cornerback will turn 37 in February. Garrett Croon, a spokesman for the Chicago bureau, told the Tribune that the FBI does not comment on personnel matters.
Tillman was very active in supporting the U.S. military during his playing days and remains so today. He spent eight days visiting with troops in Iraq and Kuwait back in 2010 and won the NFL’s Salute to Service Award in 2012.
Tillman, a two-time Pro Bowler, spent 12 seasons with the Bears before helping the Panthers reach the Super Bowl two years ago. He signed a one-day contract with Chicago last summer to retire as a member of the organization that drafted him.
