Hall of Fame
John Tatum
Tatum played football for the Weevils from 1976-81. After suffering an injury his first year on campus, he returned and immediately made an impact as one of the best defensive ends in the conference. A player with great speed and talent, opponents were fearful of running the ball to Tatum's side of the field. Perhaps one of his most impressive plays, was against UAM rival, Southern Arkansas University during the 1978 season. One of the few times a team decided to run a ball on John's side of the field did not go well, as he forced a fumble, recovered it and brought 98 yards back for a touchdown.
Tatum made a change his senior year in 1979 to anchor the defense as the team's middle linebacker. His tough play and awareness helped lead the Boll Weevils to the 1979 AIC Championship. For his individual efforts, he was All-AIC and First Team NAIA All-District 17. He was named the 1979 UAM Football Black Athlete of the Year, The UAM Black Athlete of the Year in 1980 and the 1981 Outstanding Academic Achievement Award Recipient. John was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, but an unfortunate health matter prohibited him from playing.
Tatum was the second African American to graduate from UAM's School of Forestry and has had an incredible professional career at International Paper.
