Randy Rich

Small by most standards (5-10, 165 pounds), Randy Rich made a career of being an anomaly. Recruited out of Bakersfield (Calif.) High after a sparking running career, Rich picked up where he left off at UNM.

Rich played four years (1972-75) as safety and punt returner, and was one of the team’s leading tacklers. He finished with 319 tackles, the most in school history for a defensive back at the end of his UNM career, and he also tied for the career lead with 15 interceptions. Rich was first team All-WAC as a senior in 1975.

The too-small Rich moved on to the NFL where he originally signed with the Detroit Lions. He had the good fortune to move to the Denver Broncos midway through the 1977 season. Rich was used sparingly but was still a member of a Broncos team that played the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl XII. After a short stint with Oakland, Rich finished his pro career as a kickoff returner and safety for the Cleveland Browns.

Rich remained in Albuquerque where he served as an executive for the Christian Broadcasting Academy and has been a major influence in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes both on the college and high school levels.