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Former NFL Star John Urschel Embraces Academic Life at MIT

5/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

John Urschel, once a formidable NFL lineman for the Baltimore Ravens, traded the gridiron for the classroom in 2017. Now a 33-year-old MIT professor, he cherishes the vibrant academic atmosphere he longed for. Having played at Penn State, Urschel faced a pivotal choice between football glory and a doctorate in mathematics—he chose intellect over fame.

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Story summary

John Urschel, once a formidable NFL lineman for the Baltimore Ravens, traded the gridiron for the classroom in 2017. Now a 33-year-old MIT professor, he cherishes the vibrant academic atmosphere he longed for. Having played at Penn State, Urschel faced a pivotal choice between football glory and a doctorate in mathematics—he chose intellect over fame.