John Urschel

John Cameron Urschel Jr., born on June 24, 1991, is a remarkable figure who seamlessly blends the worlds of mathematics and professional sports. A Canadian by birth, Urschel made his mark as a talented football guard, showcasing his skills at Penn State University, where he played college football. His dedication and performance led him to be drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, where he would spend his entire professional career.

Urschel's journey in the NFL was impressive yet brief; he announced his retirement on July 27, 2017, at the young age of twenty-six. However, his academic pursuits have always been a significant part of his identity. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics from Penn State and earned a PhD from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

In addition to his academic achievements, Urschel has contributed to the sports community as an advanced statistics columnist for The Players' Tribune. His expertise in mathematics has also led him to serve a three-year term on the College Football Playoff selection committee, which began in the spring of 2020. Currently, he is an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics at MIT, where he continues to inspire the next generation of mathematicians.