For Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle and team captain Kobie Turner, his path to the NFL was an unusual one. A native of the DMV area, Turner chose to stay close to home, attending the University of Richmond.
Turner joined the football team as a walk-on, playing for the program for four seasons. A member of the FCS, Richmond prepared Turner as a player and a person for his eventual jump to the FBS level, which led to his selection by the Rams in the 2023 draft. Turner recently returned to Richmond with his wife and newborn to give the commencement speech for the University’s spring graduation.
The Rams captured Turner’s return as he stepped foot on campus for the first time in five years. During his return, Turner reflected on his football journey, where he earned a scholarship after his parents gave him one year as a walk-on to earn his way.
Turner also spoke about the origins of his nickname “The Conductor,” his patented celebration, and his pursuits in music; he majored in the field, while also being a member of an acapella group.
Turner played for Richmond from 2018 to 2021 before transferring to Wake Forest for the 2022 collegiate season. Turner graduated from Richmond with degrees in music and mathematics, eventually becoming a third-round pick for the Rams.
Turner would finish his first season as the NFL’s rookie leader in sacks and has been a crucial piece in the Rams’ transition from Aaron Donald.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Watch: Kobie Turner’s return to Richmond featured on ‘Behind the Grind’
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brock Vierra, Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
