Played collegiately at the University of Alabama.  All-American three consecutive years (1984, ’85, & ’86).  He became first linebacker to win the prestigious Vince Lombardi Trophy given annually to top college lineman in the country (’86).  Was selected SEC Player of the Year in ’86.  Was selected to Alabama’s Team of the Century.  Selected Player of the Decade of the ‘80’s.  In both the 1985 Aloha Bowl and the ’86 Sun Bowl was named Defensive Player of the Game.  Number one overall pick in the 1987 NFL Draft.  Named the NFL Rookie of the year.  Appeared in five Super Bowls (four with Buffalo Bills and one with the Atlanta Falcons).  Appeared in five Pro Bowls.  2nd Team NFL All-Decade Team.  When he retired he was 3rd all-time in NFL history for fumble recoveries.  Holds the Bill’s record for all-time fumble recoveries (16).  Recorded a fumble recovery in every season except his rookie year.  Named UPI AFC Defensive Player of the Year (’91).  First player in NFL history (offensively or defensively) to be named Player of the Week two successive weeks in ’90.  In ’89 was awarded the Sington Trophy (named after fellow Hall of Famer, the late Fred Sington) as the outstanding Professional Male Athlete of the Year in Alabama.