Former NFL star Ray Rice returned to Rutgers University on Tuesday to receive his diploma, nearly two decades after leaving school to pursue a professional football career. The 39-year-old running back, who helped the Baltimore Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII, saw his career abruptly halted by a domestic violence scandal that sent shockwaves through the league.
A Promise Fulfilled
According to reports, Rice had promised his grandparents he would earn his college degree. Nearly 6,700 days after declaring for the NFL Draft, he graduated alongside classmates who were almost half his age. He took online classes alongside many current Rutgers football players, two decades after setting records during his junior season.
Not a Redemption Story
Rice insisted to NJ.com that his graduation is not 'a redemption story,' despite occurring 12 years after footage emerged of him striking his then-fiancee, Janay, in an elevator. The incident led to his indefinite suspension by the NFL and release by the Ravens. He never played another NFL game but is now married to Janay, and they share two children: Rayven, 14, and Jaylen, 9.
Back Where It All Began
Rutgers Football posted on social media: 'Back where it all began. Ray Rice returns to Rutgers to finish what he started, earning his degree!' His wife, Janay, also shared a photo of him following the graduation ceremony.
Rice joins other former Rutgers athletes, such as US soccer legend Alexi Lalas and Detroit Lions running back Isiah Pacheco, who have returned to complete their studies.
Academic Journey
When Rice left Rutgers after the 2007 season, he had accumulated 75 credits toward a degree in labor and employment relations. In the fall of 2024, he decided to return to school and finish his degree. He took courses in contract negotiations and the history of hip-hop, even writing a paper on his close friend, rapper Jadakiss.
A school official told NJ.com that Rice 'kicked a**' in his studies. He completed his coursework in January and sent a copy of his diploma to his grandparents.
