David Corenswet, who is starring as the titular character in James Gunn’s Superman, looks to be playing a real-life man of steel. The 31-year-old actor is in negotiations to lead Skydance Sports’ Mr. Irrelevant, a film inspired by the true story of NFL player John Tuggle, the last pick in the 1983 NFL draft.
The details include Jonathan Levine will direct and Emmy-nominated writer Nick Santora has screenplay duties. Levine is also producing through Megamix and Santora through Blackjack Films.
Corenswet recently talked about putting weight on for the role of Superman, so it seems his new muscles will also carry over to playing John Tuggle.
Who is John Tuggle?
John Tuggle’s story is one of determination and grit. Born in 1961, Tuggle played college football as a fullback for the California Golden Bears, rushing for over 1,800 yards and earning a starting position early in his career. Despite playing for a team that often struggled, Tuggle was known for his resilience, delivering standout performances, including a pivotal role in an upset win against Stanford, where he rushed for 110 yards and scored two touchdowns.
In 1983, Tuggle was drafted by the New York Giants as the last pick of the NFL draft, a position known as “Mr. Irrelevant.” While many players in this position never make it to the league, Tuggle defied the odds. He not only secured a spot on the Giants’ roster but was named the team’s Special Teams Player of the Year in his first season. His hard work and dedication earned him respect from his teammates and coaches.
Tuggle’s life took a tragic turn in 1984 when he was diagnosed with cancer after a car accident revealed unusual shoulder pain. Despite the diagnosis, Tuggle remained committed to the Giants, continuing to work out with the team while undergoing treatment. His strength and perseverance during this period left an indelible mark on those around him. Giants conditioning coach Johnny Parker recalled how Tuggle didn’t want sympathy and insisted on pushing himself in the weight room, where “John Tuggle was not sick. John Tuggle was a standard.”
Sadly, Tuggle passed away in 1986 at the age of 25. In a touching tribute, the New York Giants wore his number 38 on their helmets during their Super Bowl-winning season that year. His story was later featured in ESPN’s 30 for 30 short The Irrelevant Giant, showcasing his journey as an underdog who earned the respect and admiration of his peers.
