Joseph Allen Tate (born December 13, 1980)[1] is an American politician and former professional football player from Michigan.

His mother later moved the family to Southfield, Michigan, where Tate attended Southfield-Lathrup High School, graduating in 1999.

He made his mark off the field as well during his time in East Lansing, as he also was presented MSU's Community Service and Leadership Award.

[citation needed] After two seasons with the NFL, Tate returned to Michigan State University to pursue a master's degree in kinesiology while serving as a strength and conditioning graduate assistant under coach Ken Mannie in 2007 and 2008.

[2] Tate graduated from Michigan State in 2003 with a degree in public policy and was then signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an offensive lineman.