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From NFL Star to Math Professor: John Urschel's Journey

5/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

John Urschel, once a formidable NFL player for the Baltimore Ravens, has traded the football field for the classroom as a mathematics professor after earning his PhD at MIT. Passionate about equitable math education, he also raises awareness about the risks of concussions in football. Inspired by chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, Urschel dreams of returning to the chessboard.

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Story summary

John Urschel, once a formidable NFL player for the Baltimore Ravens, has traded the football field for the classroom as a mathematics professor after earning his PhD at MIT. Passionate about equitable math education, he also raises awareness about the risks of concussions in football. Inspired by chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, Urschel dreams of returning to the chessboard.