Marcus Trufant
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Marcus Trufant, former Seahawks star, continues to inspire as a community leader, youth mentor, and entrepreneur in the Pacific Northwest.
Marcus Trufant, who once played for the Seattle Seahawks, was recently part of the Seattle All-Star Classic Celebrity Softball Game at Cheney Stadium.
He discussed his ongoing community efforts, business ventures, and thoughts on the NFL with Heavy.com. Trufant, a Tacoma native and WSU alum, is remembered as one of the most dependable and respected defensive backs in Seattle Seahawks history.
A Distinguished NFL Career
Trufant was selected 11th overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. The Seattle Seahawks selected him, and he spent his entire NFL career with the team. His quick impact led to his selection for the NFL All-Rookie Team with 83 tackles, two interceptions, and a fumble recovery.
In 2007, his most incredible season, he recorded seven interceptions, including three in a single game (tying a team record) and one recovered for an 84-yard touchdown. That campaign solidified his reputation as a true lockdown corner and earned him a Pro Bowl selection.
Trufant’s influence spanned beyond stats and into the locker room. He was nominated as the Seahawks Man of the Year in 2006 and selected as a defensive captain in 2011.
From 2010 to 2012, he was a key mentor for the emerging ‘Legion of Boom’ secondary. By the end of his career, Trufant had 646 tackles, 21 interceptions, 111 passes defended, two sacks, five forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and two defensive touchdowns. After retiring as a Seahawk in 2014, he signed a one-day contract with the franchise that recruited him.
Building a Legacy Beyond the NFL
Trufant hasn’t stopped participating in his community and business ventures after hanging up his cleats. Through the Marcus Trufant Camp with Sports International, he provides young athletes with not only football training but also lessons in character, discipline, and leadership.
His commitment to building a sustainable future beyond football is exemplified by his entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in the real estate sector. Trufant emphasized the importance of serving as a role model and providing opportunities for young people, both on and off the field, at Cheney Stadium.
A Lasting Impact
The legacy of Marcus Trufant in Seattle extends beyond his 21 career interceptions or Pro Bowl awards. Leadership, mentorship, and community service have defined his career. Trufant continues to embody the meaning of being a Seattle Seahawk even after his playing days by mentoring future stars, investing in local businesses, and supporting youth through his foundation, The Marcus Trufant Foundation.
Q&A with Marcus Trufant
Q: You recently hosted your annual Marcus Trufant Camp. What makes this camp unique?
Marcus Trufant: The camp is more than just football. Yes, we have great coaches and training, but it’s about teaching kids to be good people—saying “please” and “thank you,” hanging out with the right crowd, and doing well in school. If you want to make it to college or the pros, you need to be the complete package. That’s the message we give them.
Q: You’ve also been making strides as an entrepreneur. What’s your focus in business right now?
Trufant: I’ve been working in real estate, including self-storage, but I’m looking to grow. I’m always seeking new partners and opportunities. Networking is enormous—it’s about being out in the community, shaking hands, and building relationships. There are numerous opportunities in the Northwest, and I want to help bring them to light.
Q: As one of the greatest cornerbacks of your era, who in today’s NFL reminds you of yourself?
Trufant: That’s tough, but I’ll say I’m a big fan of Devon Witherspoon. “Spoon” is a baller—he tackles, he hits, he covers, and he talks that talk. He’s a throwback corner, and I love everything about his game.
Q: Do you have any upcoming events we should know about?
Trufant: Yes, through the Trufant Family Foundation, we’ve got a lot going on. We’re hosting a golf tournament on August 18 at Newcastle Golf Course, and a Cougs vs. Huskies game on July 25 at Lee Johnson Field in Newcastle, Washington. That event raises awareness for the Junior League World Series and supports young women in sports, which is something I’m very passionate about.