Jerry Lee Rice was born on October 13, 1962. He is a former American football player. He was a wide receiver for the National Football League, predominantly for the San Francisco 49ers. His statistical categories are unmatched for wide receivers, including receptions, touchdowns, and receiving yards. He once had the highest number of total yards and touchdowns in a season. His career achievements are unprecedented for any N.F.L. player. He is popularly regarded as the greatest wide receiver in N.F.L. history and is even called the greatest N.F.L. player of all time. Rice has a record for numerous N.F.L. playoff appearances and has also played in eight conference championships and four Super Bowls.
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Jerry Rice
Nickname:
World
Birth date:
October 13, 1962
Age:
62
Zodiac Sign:
Libra
Height:
6' 2"
Relationship Status:
Married
Net Worth:
$50 million
Background
Jerry Rice was born in Starkville, Mississippi. He was one of the eight children born to his parents. His dad was a hardworking bricklayer who employed Rice and his brothers as his assistants during the hot, scorching summers. Working as an assistant bricklayer helped him gain strong hands as a child. In addition to the firm grip, he was also a gifted runner and would always zip and zap down the dirt road that led up to his house. One day Rice skipped class and what seemed like tough love to the young truant then was the beginning of his football story. His excellent running skills caught the principal’s attention; thus, he gave Rice two options ― join the school’s football team or be punished. When he started playing on the school team, he became a star player and a threat to other schools; shortly after, his speed and distinct playing tactics drew the attention of college scouts, who offered him enrolment at the Mississippi Valley State University.
He played football for the university from 1981 to 1984. Although people don’t consider M.V.S.U. a major college, Rice decided to make the most out of his opportunity. The fine details of his college career are unknown; reports say he caught 66 passes for 1,133 yards and seven touchdowns in his sophomore year, which was quite an accomplishment for a player from a small school. In time, he became a standout receiver and acquired the nickname ‘World’ because of his natural proficiency in catching anything near him. Rice got inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on August 12, 2006.
During one of his earlier games, Rice caught the attention of the coach of the 49ers, Walsh, who came to the 1985 pro football draft determined to recruit him. His rookie season had a rocky start as he struggled sometimes and dropped a record fifteen passes. However, Rice made a great comeback in his second season by hitting a record of 22 reception touchdowns. A few decades later, Rice achieved several other accomplishments in his career. Rice retired after completing his career with Oakland and Seattle as one of the most prolific wide receivers in N.F.L. history with staggering career totals.
Career timeline
Rice gets drafted as the 16th overall pick in the 1985 N.F.L. draft and meets Joe Montana.
In the spring of this year, the school renames its football stadium Rice–Totten Stadium partly in honor of Rice for putting the school on the map with his accomplishments.
Rice gets inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his 20-year career triumphs, multiple Super Bowls, and N.F.L. records.
The Sports Network establishes the annual Jerry Rice Award for the most exceptional freshman Football Championship Subdivision player.
Why We Love Jerry Rice
He likes to have fun
Although Rice has always focused on his career, he still creates time for some recreation and adventure. He likes to play golf and dance occasionally.
He has a healthy lifestyle
Though he is now retired, Rice tries to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a lot of veggies and protein. He enjoys baked chicken, pasta, and fish.
He is humble
Rice was moved to tears during an official coronation in his well-deserved career journey ― joining the Hall of Famers. He stated that it was one of his most humble and fulfilling moments.
5 Surprising Facts
He danced with the stars
Rice once took part in the T.V. show “Dancing With the Stars” sometime in 2006; his savvy moves landed him in second place.
He’s a record holder
Rice currently holds the record for the most receiving yards in a single Super Bowl.
He set multiple N.F.L. records
After only six years in the league, he had reached 100 N.F.L. records in his early thirties, an impressive number compiled by Steve Largent, a former Seattle Seahawks receiver.
His career achievements are exceptional
Rice is the most accomplished wide receiver in N.F.L. history; not many N.F.L. players have a 21-year career like his.
His nickname has an origin
Rice never dropped a ball that came his way; this earned him the nickname ‘World’ because he caught everything thrown in his vicinity.
Jerry Rice FAQs
Who is Jerry Rice married to?
He has been married twice. His first marriage was to Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell; it lasted for much of his playing career. After his divorce, he married his long-term girlfriend, Latisha Pelayo, in Napa.
Does Jerry Rice have any kids?
Yes, Rice has four children. From his first marriage, he has Rice Jr., Jacqui Bonet, and Jada Symone. He also has a son, Brenden Rice, born out of wedlock.
Where does Jerry Rice Live?
Rice and Pelayo live together in a beautiful mansion in Atherton, California.
Jerry Rice’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | October 13 | Monday |
2026 | October 13 | Tuesday |
2027 | October 13 | Wednesday |
2028 | October 13 | Friday |
2029 | October 13 | Saturday |