Originally born in San Francisco CA, and raised in Antioch, TJ attended the notorious powerhouse “De La Salle High School” in Concord, CA. At the collegiate level, TJ continued his football career as a walk-on at Oregon University, becoming a 2-year starter while helping the Duck's win a PAC-10 Championship, earning All-PAC 10 honors and completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology.

From humble beginnings as a walk-on, TJ went on to become one of the first safeties selected in the 2010 NFL Draft, being selected in the 38th overall by the Cleveland Browns. In his 8-year NFL career with the Browns, Broncos and Bucs, TJ was named to the NFL All Rookie Team, named a 2-time Pro Bowler and was selected as Second Team All-Pro.  One of the highlights of his extraordinary career was being one of the leaders of the Denver Broncos infamous “No Fly Zone” defense, helping them win Super Bowl 50. 

Off the field, TJ has been committed to helping youth and founded the “WardBoy Project”, a non-profit organization designed to empower underprivileged boys and girls across the country with the necessary tools to help them achieve their dreams.  As an entrepreneur, TJ has invested in private and public companies and has prided himself in mentoring younger professional athletes achieve long-term financial success.