NFL Star Kobie Turner is University of Richmond’s 2026 Commencement Speaker; LA Rams Defensive Tackle is UR Alum

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — NFL football player Kobie Turner, a defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, is University of Richmond’s 2026 Commencement speaker. Turner is a UR alum who double majored in mathematics and music and is a talented vocalist who appeared on The Masked Singer.

Turner will address about 840 undergraduate students (and thousands of their family and friends) earning their bachelor’s degrees from the School of Arts & Sciences, Robins School of Business, and Jepson School of Leadership Studies during the Commencement ceremony on May 10.

“I’m thrilled and honored to serve as the Commencement speaker for this year’s graduating class at my alma mater, University of Richmond,” said Turner. “The time spent at Richmond was a memorable part of my journey, and my professors and peers played a significant role in my growth and development. I hope to pay forward some of the guidance that’s been provided to me and inspire the next generation of UR graduates.”

A star on and off the field, Turner played football at Richmond (originally as a walk-on) from 2018–2021. He also plays guitar, organ, and clarinet, sang baritone for the Department of Music’s Schola Cantorum, and participated in many on campus performances. He graduated from UR in December 2021 then played for Wake Forest in 2022. Turner was selected by the Rams in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Known as "The Conductor," he led the team in regular-season sacks during his rookie season.

“I am delighted that our graduating students and their supporters will hear from Kobie, an absolutely extraordinary and kind person who challenges himself, nurtures his talents, and has already achieved so much,” said UR President Kevin F. Hallock. “Richmond students are remarkable, and they graduate prepared to lead lives of purpose. Kobie exemplifies all of this, and he is sure to inspire our newest graduates.”

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