Tim Irwin is a former NFL player who played as an offensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings and the Tennessee Oilers (now Tennessee Titans) during the 1980s and 1990s. Irwin was known for his toughness, durability, and versatility on the offensive line, where he spent the majority of his career. His consistent play helped solidify his reputation as a reliable and solid contributor to his teams’ success.

Early Life and College Career

Timothy William Irwin was born on June 28, 1962, in North Carolina. He attended Southwest Guilford High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he was an outstanding football player, excelling both in the trenches and as a leader on his team.

Irwin played college football at the University of Tennessee, where he became a key part of the Volunteers’ offensive line. His excellent play in college earned him a reputation as a top offensive line prospect, and he was drafted into the NFL based on his skill, size, and toughness.

NFL Career

Minnesota Vikings (1985–1993)

Tim Irwin was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 4th round of the 1985 NFL Draft (108th overall). He would go on to spend nine seasons with the Vikings, where he became a mainstay on their offensive line.

• Starting Role: Irwin made an immediate impact and earned a starting spot early in his career. He played both the right tackle and left tackle positions during his time with the Vikings, showing his versatility and ability to protect the quarterback from various spots on the line.
• Durability and Longevity: One of Irwin’s key traits was his durability. He played in over 130 career games, starting more than 100 of them. His reliability as a blocker helped the Vikings maintain a solid offensive line during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
• Success with Vikings: Irwin was part of some solid teams during the late 1980s and early 1990s that made it to the playoffs multiple times. His blocking helped protect quarterbacks like Wade Wilson and Rich Gannon, as well as paving the way for running backs like Herschel Walker.

Tennessee Oilers (1994)

After leaving the Vikings, Irwin signed with the Tennessee Oilers (who later became the Tennessee Titans). He played for the team for one season in 1994 before retiring from professional football.

Playing Style and Legacy

• Toughness: Irwin was known for his tough, gritty play, which was a trademark of his style as an offensive tackle. His ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for his team was crucial to his success.
• Versatility: He demonstrated a high level of versatility by playing both tackle positions. His ability to fill in wherever needed and maintain a high level of play made him a valuable asset to his team.
• Durability: Irwin’s ability to stay healthy and perform consistently over his long career was one of his most respected attributes. His durability helped ensure that the teams he played for had a stable presence on the offensive line.

Career Highlights and Achievements

• NFL Career: Played 10 seasons in the NFL, from 1985 to 1994.
• Games Played: Appeared in 150 career games, with over 100 starts.
• Teams: Minnesota Vikings (1985–1993), Tennessee Oilers (1994).
• Success: Irwin was part of a successful Vikings team that made playoff appearances during his tenure.

Summary

• Position: Offensive Tackle
• NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings (1985–1993), Tennessee Oilers (1994)
• Career Stats: 150 games played, 100+ starts
• Legacy: Irwin was a solid and reliable offensive lineman for the Vikings and Oilers. Known for his durability, toughness, and versatility, he was a mainstay on the Vikings’ offensive line and helped protect quarterbacks and clear the way for running backs. Though he may not have received as much attention as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the teams he played for were highly valued.