Spotlight: Darryl Richard

Georgia Tech’s Darryl Richard is living the NFL dream, having been selected in the seventh round of the ‘09 NFL draft, and the rookie defensive tackle was signed to the team’s roster last week with a four-year contract, solidifying his newfound allegiance to the New England Patriots. While Richard has been a standout on the football field since his high school days, he’s also been applauded for his feats off the field, as well. The 6-foot-4, 290-pound tackle was the valedictorian of his high school class in 2004, and he took the same measures in his studies at Georgia Tech, having graduated with two degrees, including a master’s degree in business administration.

When it comes to his work ethic and academics, Darryl Richard is no dumb jock. “I’m not one of those guys who are good with down time,” Richard recently said. “I definitely want to have a life after football, and football is, really, a business. You have to think of yourself as a small business. Thanks to my MBA, I think I am prepared for the business of football.” Aside from his football career, Richard has garnered several academic awards, including the ACC’s Tatum Award and the Draddy Trophy. He’s sure to bring his brains and brawn to Gillette Stadium and beyond this year, so look for No. 69 to do great things this season!

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