Charles Tillman made his first appearance in an NFL game in Week 1 of his rookie season. He made four tackles and, of course, forced a fumble. He made his first start in Week 4, a 24-21 victory over the Raiders, making six tackles and getting his first pass breakup. Over the course of his rookie year, Tillman would collect 86 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, a sack, four interceptions, 12 pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.
Not bad for a rookie.
Tillman ascended to the starter’s role quickly despite the presence of veterans R.W. McQuarters and Jerry Azumah.