Chuck Latourette

Charles Pierre Latourette was an American professional football player who was a punter and return specialist for the St. Louis Cardinals of the National Football League. He played college football for the Rice Owls.

Early life

Latourette attended Jonesboro high school where he played football. Latourette was an All-American and All-Southwest Conference as a defensive back.

Professional career

In 1967, Latourette signed with the St. Louis Cardinals and selected as the Cardinals' Rookie of the Year. On September 29, 1968, Latourette set the NFL record for punt return average in a single game against the New Orleans Saints.

Retirement

In 1972, Latourette announced his retirement from the National Football League following his graduation of the University of Tennessee as a medical student where he attended during his career in the National Football League.

Death

On December 21, 1982, Latourette died from a single gunshot wound to his eye in the bedroom of his apartment. Latourette was a radiologist at the time of his death. Prior to his death, on July 30, 1981, Latourette previously survived a hang gliding accident in which he suffered broken arms and ribs.