Taitusi "Deuce" Lutui is a Tongan-born former American football player who was a guard in the National Football League (NFL) for seven seasons. He played college football for the University of Southern California (USC), and received consensus All-American honors. He was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft, and also played for the NFL's Tennessee Titans. One of several Tongans who have played in the NFL, he is a cousin of Vai Sikahema, the first Tongan ever to play in the NFL.
Lutui in September 2009
Lutui in the 2012 preseason.
The 2006 NFL draft, the 71st in league history, took place in New York City, New York, at Radio City Music Hall on April 29 and April 30, 2006. For the 27th consecutive year, the draft was telecast on ESPN and ESPN2, with additional coverage offered by ESPNU and, for the first time, by NFL Network. Having signed a contract with the Houston Texans on the evening before the draft, Mario Williams, a defensive end from North Carolina State, became the draft's first pick. The selection surprised many commentators, who predicted that the Texans would draft Southern California running back Reggie Bush or Texas quarterback Vince Young. Ohio State produced the most first round selections (five), while Southern California produced the most overall selections (eleven). Twenty-seven compensatory and supplemental compensatory selections were distributed amongst seventeen teams; Tampa Bay, Baltimore, and Tennessee each held three compensatory picks. The league also held a supplemental draft after the regular draft and before the regular season.
First overall pick Mario Williams was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and one-time All-Pro defensive end.
Quarterback Jay Cutler enjoyed a 12-year career in the league, receiving one Pro Bowl invite.
Wide receiver Devin Hester was drafted in the second round and holds several NFL records as a return specialist.
Zach Strief was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the seventh round and part of the offensive line which won the Madden Most Valuable Protectors Award twice.