Devin Richardson Bio
Devin Richardson is an American professional football linebacker who most recently played for the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League. Born on December 5, 1999, in Klein, Texas, Richardson developed his skills at Klein High School before embarking on a collegiate journey spanning three universities. He earned freshman All-American honors during his time at New Mexico State and went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft before signing with the Seattle Seahawks. Richardson later joined the BC Lions organization, where he spent time on both the active roster and practice squad.
Early Life and Background
Devin Richardson was born on December 5, 1999, in Klein, Texas, a suburb of Houston. During his childhood, Richardson initially aspired to become a professional Call of Duty player before shifting his focus to football. His athletic journey began at Klein High School, where he developed into a notable defensive player.
At Klein High School, Richardson played high school football and established himself as a talented prospect. He earned All-District 15-6A honors during his senior season, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest high school level in Texas. In the class of 2018, 247Sports.com rated him as the No. 109 outside linebacker in Texas and the No. 234 overall prospect in the state, signaling his potential to continue his football career at the collegiate level.
Path to American Football
Following his standout high school career, Richardson attracted attention from multiple college programs. His impressive high school statistics and district honors made him a viable candidate for Division I football. After evaluating his options, Richardson chose to begin his collegiate career at New Mexico State University.
Richardson enrolled at New Mexico State University in 2018, joining the Aggies football program. His journey from a highly rated Texas high school prospect to a Division I player represented the first major step in his football career. The transition to the college level required adjustment to faster competition and more sophisticated schemes, challenges that Richardson would need to navigate as he developed his skills.
Devin Richardson Career
College Career (2018–2023)
Richardson began his college football career at New Mexico State University, playing for the Aggies from 2018 to 2020. As a true freshman in 2018, he appeared in four games and was redshirted after posting one solo tackle. His most productive season came in 2019 when he started ten games as a redshirt freshman. Richardson recorded 24 solo tackles, 45 assisted tackles, two sacks, three forced fumbles, and one pass breakup during that campaign. His three forced fumbles led the team and tied for the most among independent programs.
His performance in 2019 earned him recognition as a freshman All-American by the Football Writers Association of America, a significant achievement that validated his development as a collegiate player. The 2020 season was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Richardson appeared in only one game, posting three solo tackles and five assisted tackles.
Prior to the 2021 season, Richardson transferred to the University of Texas at Austin to play for the Texas Longhorns. At Texas, he primarily contributed on special teams, appearing in 11 games during the 2021 season and recording three solo tackles and two assisted tackles. In 2022, he appeared in nine games, totaling six solo tackles and five assisted tackles.
For his final season of college eligibility, Richardson transferred to Washington State University to play for the Cougars in 2023. He started seven of the 12 games he played, recording 31 solo tackles, 31 assisted tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble. His transition across three programs demonstrated his adaptability and commitment to continuing his football development at the highest collegiate level.
Seattle Seahawks (2024)
Despite going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Richardson signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent on May 13, 2024. He joined the team during offseason activities and competed for a roster spot at the linebacker position. During the preseason, Richardson played in one game, posting three tackles while allowing two catches for 13 yards in coverage.
The Seahawks waived Richardson on August 19, 2024, during final roster cuts. He subsequently joined the practice squad on October 3, 2024, providing depth at the linebacker position throughout the regular season. His tenure with Seattle ended when he was released on October 8, 2024, concluding his first NFL experience.
BC Lions (2024–2025)
Following his release from the Seahawks, Richardson pursued opportunities in the Canadian Football League. He signed with the BC Lions on December 20, 2024, joining the CFL franchise for the 2025 season. Richardson began his time with the Lions during training camp, competing for a spot on the active roster.
He was released at the end of training camp but was signed to the Lions practice squad, allowing him to continue developing within the organization. Richardson was later elevated to the active roster for one game in June but did not record any statistics during that appearance. He was reassigned to the practice squad, where he remained for the remainder of the 2025 CFL season until his release on November 9, 2025.
Playing Style and Strengths
Richardson primarily played as a linebacker, a position requiring a combination of physicality, instincts, and coverage ability. His experience spanning multiple college programs across different defensive schemes demonstrates his versatility and adaptability. His collegiate statistics, particularly his forced fumbles at New Mexico State, indicate a disruptive presence in the backfield. His special teams experience at Texas provided him with additional dimensions that translate to professional football.
Notable Events and Milestones
Richardson achieved several notable milestones throughout his football career. His selection as a freshman All-American by the Football Writers Association of America in 2019 represented a significant recognition of his talent and production at the collegiate level. The achievement placed him among the top incoming players nationally and established expectations for his continued development.
Transitioning from the NFL to the CFL, Richardson gained international professional experience that expanded his football knowledge. His journey through three college programs and two professional leagues showcased his resilience and commitment to pursuing opportunities at the highest levels of the sport.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked Richardson’s first full year in the Canadian Football League with the BC Lions. Joining the organization late in 2024, he entered training camp competing for a roster spot at linebacker. After being assigned to the practice squad following initial releases, Richardson worked throughout the offseason to develop within the Lions defensive system.
During the regular season, Richardson saw limited game action, appearing on the active roster for one game in June without recording statistics. The CFL presented a different brand of football with its larger field and unique rules, requiring adjustment from his American college and professional experience. His time on the practice squad allowed him to continue refining his skills while awaiting opportunities.
Richardson was released by the BC Lions on November 9, 2025, concluding his tenure with the organization. As a free agent following his release, he continues to pursue professional football opportunities. His journey demonstrates the challenges facing undrafted players seeking to establish careers in professional football, highlighting the importance of persistence and adaptability in a competitive industry.