Tyrek Funderburk Bio
Tyrek Funderburk is an American professional football cornerback currently with the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). Born on November 28, 2000, in Indian Trail, North Carolina, he has built his career through collegiate success and perseverance as an undrafted player making NFL rosters.
Early Life and Background
Tyrek Funderburk was born and raised in Indian Trail, North Carolina. He attended Metrolina Christian Academy, where he developed his skills in football and attracted attention for his athletic potential. His early exposure to competitive football at Metrolina Christian Academy laid the foundation for his collegiate career.
Following high school, Funderburk committed to the University of Richmond, joining the Richmond Spiders football program. His time at Richmond was marked by steady development and notable achievements, which positioned him for further advancement in college football.
Path to American Football
Funderburk played five seasons with the Richmond Spiders, earning recognition as a Second-team All-Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) player in 2020 and 2021. After the 2022 season, he entered the NCAA transfer portal to seek new opportunities and transferred to Appalachian State University for his final collegiate season in 2023.
At Appalachian State, Funderburk continued to excel, earning First-team All-Sun Belt honors in 2023. His performance at Appalachian State showcased his growth and readiness for professional football, culminating in his pursuit of an NFL career.
Tyrek Funderburk Career
Early Career (2024–Present)
Despite not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Tyrek Funderburk signed as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He impressed during training camp and preseason, securing a spot on the Buccaneers’ final roster for the 2024 season. This achievement highlighted his determination and ability to compete at the highest level.
Funderburk’s time with the Buccaneers included valuable experience in the NFL environment, though he faced challenges such as an injury designation that led to his waiver from the team in August 2025. Shortly after, he was signed to the Minnesota Vikings practice squad in September 2025, continuing his professional journey.
Minnesota Vikings Era (2025–Present)
Joining the Minnesota Vikings practice squad in 2025 marks a new chapter for Tyrek Funderburk. This opportunity allows him to develop further within a competitive NFL organization. His presence on the practice squad demonstrates the Vikings’ interest in his potential and provides a platform for him to earn active roster consideration.
Playing Style and Strengths
Tyrek Funderburk is known for his agility and coverage skills as a cornerback. Standing 183 cm tall and weighing 84 kg, he combines physicality with speed to effectively challenge receivers. His collegiate accolades reflect his ability to adapt and perform in various defensive schemes.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Funderburk’s career include earning All-CAA honors twice and First-team All-Sun Belt recognition. Making the Tampa Bay Buccaneers final roster as an undrafted player is a significant professional achievement, demonstrating his resilience and talent.
Tyrek Funderburk Career Wins
While cornerbacks do not accumulate wins in the traditional sense, Tyrek Funderburk’s career highlights include his collegiate honors and successful transition to the NFL as an undrafted free agent securing roster spots.
College Highlights
Funderburk’s college career is distinguished by his selection to the Second-team All-CAA in 2020 and 2021 while at Richmond, and First-team All-Sun Belt in 2023 at Appalachian State. These honors reflect his consistent performance and impact on the field.
Professional Highlights
Making the Tampa Bay Buccaneers final roster in 2024 as an undrafted free agent stands out as a key professional highlight. His subsequent signing with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad in 2025 indicates ongoing recognition of his potential at the NFL level.
Tyrek Funderburk Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Details about Tyrek Funderburk’s family background and personal life remain private and are not publicly documented. There is no verified information regarding his parents, spouse, or children.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Tyrek Funderburk is positioned on the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, aiming to leverage this opportunity to secure a spot on the active roster. His transition from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he faced injury challenges, to the Vikings reflects his commitment to advancing his professional career.
The 2025 season represents a critical period for Funderburk to demonstrate his skills and adaptability within the Vikings’ defensive system. Continued development and strong performances in practice could lead to increased playing time and contributions to the team.