Thank you Jamey Richard

Jamie Richard, the former University at Buffalo standout offensive lineman announced on his Facebook page that he has officially retired from playing professional football after a five year career. The first player in modern UB history to play in a Super Bowl (a loss to the Saints 31 - 17 in Miami February 7, 2010) Jamey ushered in a nice streak of Gill era players into the NFL including team mate at that Super Bowl, Drew Willy, James Starks (won the Super Bowl the very next year), Mike Newton (team mate of Jamey in Indianapolis,) Namaan Roosevelt, Trevor Scott (team mate this past season in New England with Jamey), and Josh Thomas.

Jamey had a great career at UB from 2004 - 2007. Jamey was a three-year starter. Called by head coach Turner Gill the "heart and soul" of the Bulls' resurgent football program, Richard was the model of consistency during his three seasons as the starting center. Possessing great strength and toughness in the trenches, he was also a versatile blocker with experience at the guard position.

Named the team's Top Offensive Lineman the last three years, Richard has also excelled in the classroom, earning league academic accolades. He was also a semifinalist for the National Football Foundation's Draddy Award, nicknamed the academic Heisman, for his combination of academic and athletic performance.

Richard enrolled at Buffalo in 2003, as he became just the second player in Weston High annals to earn a Division I-A scholarship. He spent that season on the scout team, adjusting to playing center. The following year, he appeared in seven contests, earning starting assignments in the pivot vs. Akron and Miami (Oh.) while paving the way for a pair of 200-yard rushing performances.

The 2005 season saw Richard firmly entrenched at center, starting all 11 games. One of three offensive linemen to start every game, the team amassed 986 of its 1,119 yards rushing through the middle of its front wall.

As a junior, Richard served as team captain, as he was the recipient of the squad's 'U Believe' Award, given to the most outstanding offensive lineman, as well as the Dominic Grossi Award presented to the UB football player who has displayed athletic prowess, academic excellence and sportsmanship. He went on to post 79 knockdowns and grade 82.4 percent for blocking consistency while helping the team total 3,218 yards in total offense through 12 contests.

Richard was named to The NFL Draft Report's 2007 Super Sleeper Team, adding second-team All-Mid American Conference honors. He was also a Pro Football Weekly All-American honorable mention, becoming the university's first national award winner since the team joined the major college ranks in 1999. He registered 87 knockdowns and led all MAC down linemen with an 84.7 percent grade for blocking consistency.

We thank you for all the great memories and games during your time as a Bull. We also thank you for the class you displayed representing the Bulls. All of us at Bull Run wish you health and a very happy future.