Overview

Zurlon Tipton (April 27, 1990 – June 28, 2016) was an American football player best known as a running back. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, he came to wider attention after a productive college career and a brief professional stint. For other people with the same surname, see Tipton (disambiguation).

Early life and college

Tipton played high school football in the Detroit area before enrolling at Central Michigan. At college he developed as a physical runner and contributed on offense and special teams. Although he was not selected in the NFL draft, his college work earned him a chance to pursue a professional career.

Professional career

After going undrafted in 2014, Tipton signed with the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent. He spent time on practice squads and active rosters, serving primarily as a reserve back and special teams performer. Contemporary coverage and team reports described him as a hardworking player who provided depth and versatility in the backfield and on kick coverage.

Playing style and role

Tipton was typically described as a physical, straight-ahead runner who excelled in short-yardage situations and contributed energy on special teams. Teammates and coaches praised his work ethic and willingness to perform the less glamorous roles that help an NFL roster function during a long season.

Death and legacy

Tipton died on June 28, 2016, at a hospital in Detroit after sustaining an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound to the abdomen, according to contemporary news reports. He was 26. His passing prompted expressions of sympathy from former teammates, coaches and fans, and it drew attention to off-field safety and the fragility of athletes' lives beyond their public roles.

Notable facts

  • Undrafted free agent signee with the Indianapolis Colts after college.
  • College career at Central Michigan that led to professional opportunities.
  • Remembered for his physical running style and special teams contributions.
  • Accounts of his life and career appear in various contemporary football coverage and local press.