With the 71st pick in the 2013 NFL draft, the St. Louis Rams selected safety T.J. McDonald. Buffalo Bills fans might remember this pick as it was part of the draft day trade involving EJ Manuel. Tangential Bills connections abound, as T.J.’s father Tim coached defensive backs in Buffalo the last two years. Prior to coaching, Tim McDonald had an illustrious career as a defensive back with the Cardinals and 49ers. His career highlights included multiple Pro Bowl selections and the chance to hoist a Lombardi Trophy.
With such direct football lineage, you’d be hard pressed to find a player who has had a better opportunity to learn their position than T.