Where does the term: "The Turk" come from for the NFL?

Question

With teams preparing to cut players for the final roster, I've noticed that news articles have been referring to "the Turk" who goes around and stalks players that are in danger of being cut. I understand it's a metaphor, but what is the origin of this term? I tried Googling it, but I only got NFL players that had the name "Turk."

Answer 1

Hey,

it's a really interesting question. I admit it was really hard to find anything useful. And I am still not sure that I have found the real answer... but even though it is not the real origin of the term I found it reasonable. So here it is:

"As for why the hatchetman is called "The Turk", the origins are hazy at best (I couldn't find anything conclusive). However, the most plausible explanation was found in an August 27, 2001 article by Scott Paulsen on Pittsburgh's 970 AM's website:

I imagine that the NFL started using "Turk" because of the Turkish soldiers of the 17th and 18th century and their long, curved scimitars. It's a wonderful visual. Beware the Turk. He comes late at night, armed with a long, curved sword that he'll used to cut you from the team! "

Answer 2

Who is this Turk? He is the individual assigned by the organization to go to a player's room, knock on his door and utter those dreaded words: "The coach wants to see you--and bring your playbook." In short, the Turk is the NFL version of the Grim Reaper.

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1...

Answer 3

how about Turkey! hahah

Answer 4

honestly i've never heard of it so i couldn't tell you