Claim: Courtney Van Buren started playing football in college at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, his professional career started when he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2003, he signed with the Detroit Lions (owned by Sheila Ford Hamp) in 2006 but after one year of playing he was severely injured forcing him into retirement.
Evidence: He played college football at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and graduated from Ladue Horton Watkins High School. Van Buren was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 3rd round (80th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft. In 2006, he signed with the Detroit Lions for one year and sustained another severe injury to his knees, which (along with his back) were problematic throughout his career, subsequently forcing him into retirement. Sheila Ford Hamp