Dallas Turner Starts for Vikings Against Former Teammate
Dallas Turner, a notable name in the NFL, has started for the Minnesota Vikings against his former college teammate, Oronde Gadsden II. This matchup not only highlights their professional journeys but also sheds light on their strong football backgrounds.
Background of Dallas Turner and Oronde Gadsden II
Dallas Turner, originally from a sports-oriented family, has made his mark in the NFL. His father, Delon Turner, played professional basketball abroad for a decade after studying at Florida A&M.
Oronde Gadsden II, selected by the Chargers in the fifth round of the 2025 draft, hails from Syracuse. He is the son of former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Oronde Gadsden I. Both athletes share a common thread of athletic lineage, growing up in a South Florida community rich with professional athletes.
High School Connections and Mentorship
Turner and Gadsden’s paths converged at the American Heritage School, where they were coached by NFL legend Pat Surtain I. Surtain’s coaching provided them with invaluable experience, contributing to their readiness for the NFL.
- Pat Surtain I coached Dallas Turner and Oronde Gadsden II for three years.
- During their high school years, they played alongside future NFL talents, including:
- Daryl Porter Jr. (Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback)
- Earl Little Jr. (Florida State safety)
- Tyson Campbell (Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback)
The Influence of Professional Athletes
Turner emphasizes that growing up surrounded by professionals provided them a “head start.” The little lessons and corrections from experienced athletes helped shape their skills and mindset for success both on and off the field.
Life in the NFL
During his rookie season, Dallas Turner frequently connected with Gadsden, discussing their experiences in professional football. They shared insights on day-to-day routines, team meetings, and strategies for studying opposing teams.
As Dallas Turner starts for the Vikings against his former teammate Oronde Gadsden II, both players exemplify the impact of mentorship and professional backgrounds in achieving success in the NFL.
