Al Wilson, a native of Jackson TN, was a standout athlete competing in football, basketball and track at Jackson Central-Merry High School. Wilson excelled in football, playing linebacker on defense and running back and quarterback on offense. He rushed for 1,160 yards and 15 touchdowns in his senior season. In 1994, he was named to several high school All-American listings, the Tennessee All-State Team and selected as most valuable player of the state championship game.
Wilson attended the University of Tennessee and played for Coach Phil Fulmer’s Tennessee Volunteer football teams from 1995 to 1998. He was a team captain when the Vols earned the 1998 National Championship title and back-to-back Southeastern Conference titles. Wilson was the heartbeat and spirit of the Vol’s defense. In 1998, after his third season starting for the Volunteers, he was recognized as a consensus first-team All-American. A two-time All-SEC selection in 1997 and 1998, Wilson was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round (31st pick) of the 1999 NFL Draft.
Wilson became the anchor of the Broncos’ defense and was selected All-Pro in 2005, earning five Pro Bowl selections. He was one of the fastest middle linebackers in the league and excelled in pass coverage. He passed the 100-tackle mark in five consecutive seasons, including 109 tackles (73 of which were solo) in 2004 to rank second on the Broncos. In 2003, Wilson completed 128 tackles, making himself the Broncos’ lead tackler for the second consecutive season. Wilson retired after eight seasons finishing with 714 total tackles, 21.5 sacks, 5 interceptions and 8 forced fumbles.
After retiring from the NFL, Wilson transitioned from football into the business world. He invests in great companies, showing his passion for excellence and leadership, just as he did on the football field. Wilson has one son, Carrington Wilson, who attends and plays baseball for Trevecca Nazarene in Nashville.