Serving as ACU Team Captain was the Honor of a Lifetime for Marshall

Playing time is often the most important thing for any athlete. 

But for T.J. Marshall, who just finished his fourth and final season with the Abilene Christian football team, his lack of playing time never defined him or his contributions to the team. 

Marshall spent most of his career playing on special teams and providing depth at the safety position. He never complained about his role, though, because he knew he was part of something much bigger than himself.

Before the 2025 season began, Marshall's teammates voted him as one of four team captains. When head coach Keith Patterson made the announcement at a team gathering, Marshall said it was one of the most fulfilling moments of his life.

"It was an honor," said the senior from Pearland. "I'd like to thank my mom for working so hard to get me where I am, and my teammates, too. They're some of the best I've ever had in my life. I wouldn't be anything without them.

Marshall's journey at Abilene Christian wasn't easy. 

He transferred to ACU from the University of Houston, and it took him some time to settle in and find his purpose. Patterson joked about him and Marshall butting heads during their early years at ACU.

But the challenges Marshall faced along the way is what made him into the leader he is today. 

"I thank God every day for giving me these trials and tribulations because I get to pour into the youth of the team," said Marshall. "I was once in their position, and the young people come up to me all the time with their problems and what they are going through. 

"I get to relate to those things because I've already been there. I get to tell them the mistakes I made and how I grew into the man I am today. I thank God for putting me in those positions to lead people and give them the wisdom they expect me to give them."

In today's age of the transfer portal, it's becoming rare for student-athletes to spend three or four years at one school.

But for Marshall, committing to, and staying at, ACU was a no-brainer. He's grateful for everything the university has done for him. 
 

"ACU took a chance on me that a lot of schools did not," said Marshall. "They showed loyalty to me, so I have to show loyalty back. Since I've been here, I've created relationships with people, and it feels like they've been here the whole time. 

"It's been a blessing because I got to graduate with my undergrad, and I'm about to graduate with my master's degree. Those are two things that make my mom very happy with me, so I'm just blessed to be in the position I am today."