Begin his playing career at Texas Christian University, where he was a standout defensive end for the Horned Frogs from 1980-1983. He went on to be selected in the fourth round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Raiders. Townsend went on to have a historical NFL Career – playing 13 years and earning various accolades including:

• 2× Pro Bowl (1990, 1991)
• 2× Second-Team All-Pro (1990, 1991)
• 100 Sacks Club
• Super Bowl champion (XVIII)