Jerry Richardson's journey in the world of football began as a player before transitioning into a role that would see him influence the sport from a different angle. Born on July 18, 1936, in Spring Hope, North Carolina, Richardson's early years were marked by his athletic prowess, which eventually led him to Wofford College. At Wofford, he excelled as a wide receiver, setting records and earning accolades for his performance on the field.
After college, Richardson's professional playing career took off when he was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the 13th round of the 1958 NFL Draft. He played two seasons with the Colts, during which he was part of the team that won the 1959 NFL Championship. His time as a player, though brief, was marked by his ability to contribute to the team's success, catching passes from the legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas.
Following his stint in the NFL, Richardson ventured into the business world, where he found considerable success. He co-founded the Hardee's fast-food chain, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Despite his business achievements, Richardson's connection to football remained strong, and he harbored ambitions of returning to the sport in a different capacity.
In the early 1990s, Richardson's dream of bringing an NFL team to the Carolinas became a reality. He spearheaded the effort to establish the Carolina Panthers, an expansion team that joined the NFL in 1995. As the owner of the Panthers, Richardson played a crucial role in shaping the team's identity and fostering its growth within the league. Under his ownership, the Panthers reached the Super Bowl twice, in 2003 and 2015, showcasing the team's competitive spirit and ability to perform at the highest level.
Richardson's tenure as the Panthers' owner was not without controversy. In 2017, allegations of workplace misconduct surfaced, leading to an NFL investigation. As a result, Richardson announced his decision to sell the team, and the sale was completed in 2018 to David Tepper.
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