Terrel Bernard | La Porte Football

View the page dedicated to La Porte Football alum and NFL star Terrel Bernard.

High School Career

Bernard was a standout at La Porte High School in Texas, where he emerged as an all-state linebacker and one of the top defensive players in the area. He was highly productive, stuffing the stat sheet with tackles, sacks, and forced turnovers while also contributing on offense. Bernard’s physicality, instincts, and leadership made him the focal point of La Porte’s defense and set the foundation for his next level.

College Career - Baylor

Bernard developed into a defensive leader at Baylor after redshirting his freshman season. He became a multi-year starter, earning multiple All–Big 12 honors and establishing himself as one of the conference’s most complete linebackers. His senior season was his best, as he earned First Team All–Big 12 recognition and helped lead Baylor to a Big 12 title. Bernard capped his college career by winning Sugar Bowl MVP after a dominant performance, cementing his legacy in the program.

NFL Career - Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills drafted Terrel Bernard in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft and initially eased him into the defense as a rotational linebacker and special teams player. In 2023, he took over a starting role and quickly broke out as one of the league’s most productive linebackers. Bernard led Buffalo in tackles while also making major plays as a blitzer and in coverage, showing rare versatility for the position. His ability to diagnose plays, finish tackles, and create turnovers made him a true three-down linebacker. He earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors during his breakout season. Since then, Bernard has established himself as a defensive leader and secured a long-term contract extension, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Bills’ defense.