Dan Turk was an American football player who played as a center in the National Football League (NFL) for over a decade. He began his career in the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 1985, signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he did not make the team and was released before the start of the regular season.
Turk then played in the United States Football League (USFL) for two seasons, first with the Arizona Outlaws in 1985 and then with the Memphis Showboats in 1986. He was a starter for both teams and helped lead the Showboats to the USFL championship game in his second season.
After the USFL folded, Turk returned to the NFL and signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1987. He played for the Buccaneers for two seasons before being traded to the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders in 1989. Turk played for the Raiders for six seasons and was a key member of their offensive line during that time.
In 1995, Turk signed with the Washington Redskins and played for them for two seasons. He then signed with the St. Louis Rams in 1997 and played for them for one season before being traded to the Miami Dolphins in 1998. Turk played for the Dolphins for one season before signing with the New York Jets in 1999.
Unfortunately, Turk's career was cut short when he suffered a blood clot in his leg during a game against the Buffalo Bills in November 1999. He was rushed to the hospital and underwent emergency surgery, but he died on the operating table at the age of 38.
Turk was known for his toughness and durability as a player, having played in 240 consecutive games at the time of his death. He was also known for his leadership and work ethic, and was respected by his teammates and coaches alike.
In addition to his playing career, Turk was also involved in coaching and scouting after his retirement from playing. He worked as a scout for the Green Bay Packers and as an offensive line coach for the Arena Football League's Orlando Predators.
Overall, Dan Turk had a successful career as a football player, playing for several teams over the course of more than a decade. He was a respected and admired player, and his untimely death was a loss to the football community.
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