Sports
Iowa State’s TJ Tampa Selected by Baltimore Ravens in the 2024 NFL Draft
Iowa State standout TJ Tampa has made his NFL dream a reality after being chosen by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Tampa, known for his physical play and defensive prowess, was the 130th overall selection in the draft.
During his time at Iowa State, TJ Tampa established himself as a formidable force in the defensive backfield, impressing onlookers with his lengthy frame and tenacity on the field. His knack for disrupting passing plays with 19 career pass breakups caught the attention of NFL scouts.
With a wingspan exceeding 32 inches, Tampa’s ability to make plays on the ball and deliver bone-jarring hits set him apart as a standout cornerback in the Big 12 conference. His size, at 6-foot-1 and 189 pounds, positions him well to excel in both pass coverage and run support at the professional level.
Under the guidance of coach Matt Campbell, Tampa emerged as a key contributor in Iowa State’s defense, often matching up against top receivers in a pass-heavy conference. Despite concerns about his top-end speed, Tampa’s agility and footwork make him a formidable defender, capable of keeping pace with elite wideouts.
In his collegiate career, TJ Tampa amassed an impressive resume, tallying 107 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, and 19 pass breakups. His versatility and playmaking ability make him a valuable addition to the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive unit.
Fans eagerly anticipate seeing TJ Tampa wearing the purple and black of the Ravens, where his blend of size, physicality, and defensive instincts is expected to make an immediate impact on the field. As he transitions to the NFL, Tampa’s journey from Iowa State standout to rookie sensation is poised to captivate football fans nationwide.
Eli McKown, a dedicated reporter covering high school sports and wrestling for the Des Moines Register, closely followed TJ Tampa’s rise through the ranks. Stay connected with McKown’s insights on Twitter as he continues to spotlight emerging talents in the sports world.
