Bears News: Meet the Rookies: Shemar Turner |
Tony Crumpton
· · 7 hours ago
Follow the journey of Chicago Bears defensive lineman Shemar Turner as he turns his dream into reality. Growing up in Mansfield, Texas, Shemar encountered adversity in school, facing expulsion and ongoing struggles with his grades. It was his uncle’s guidance that helped shape him into the resilient, determined man he is today. From dominating at DeSoto High School to battling personal loss at Texas A&M, Shemar’s path to the NFL was anything but easy. Through grit, growth and perseverance, he overcame every obstacle and earned his shot when he was selected 62nd overall by the Bears in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Watch the video below:
Video summary/cliff notes:
(00:05) As early as 5th grade, Shemar declared his dream of playing in the NFL, standing on a football field star and saying, “I’m going to be an NFL player.”
(01:14) Raised in a challenging environment, Shemar was energetic but often got into trouble — eventually being expelled from a school due to conduct issues.
(02:49) His mom responded with resilience, writing the school an email titled “I’ll never give up” — a pivotal moment in their determination.
(03:24) Shemar moved in with his uncle, “Uncle Fat Daddy,” who introduced structure, discipline, and love — a major turning point in Shemar’s life.
(05:33) His uncle worked with his high school coach to build a plan for Shemar’s success, holding him accountable while supporting him with love.
(06:44) Shemar became known as a dominant, aggressive player, likened to Superman when wearing pads — he once tackled Deion Sanders’ son with one hand 😱.
(07:42) At Texas A&M, he stood out from day one: intense, focused, always prepared. Coaches said, “Give me four of him, and I’ll take them every time and twice on Saturdays.”
(09:32) During his sophomore year, Shemar lost his brother — a traumatic event that he overcame with his deepening faith in Jesus Christ 🙏.
(11:05) Drafted by the Chicago Bears with the 62nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Shemar’s emotional moment brought tears, hugs, and pure joy to his family.
(12:09) Shemar reflects, “Being an NFL player now… I made my dreams come true. It means the world to me.” 🐻🏈
