C. J. Richardson (American football)

Carl Ray "C. J." Richardson, Jr. (born June 10, 1972) is a former American football defensive back who played with the Arizona Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Miami.

High school career
Richardson played both baseball and football at H. Grady Spruce High School in Dallas. He earned All-State and All-American honors in football in 1989 and 1990.

College career
Richardson originally intended to play both baseball and football at the University of Miami, but was forced to focus on football after having to battle for a starting spot at safety on the Hurricanes football team. He played three seasons with the Hurricanes from 1992–1994, being named an All-American at the end of his 1994 season.

He received a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the university in 1995.

Houston Oilers
The Houston Oilers drafted Richardson in the seventh round of the 1995 NFL Draft, with the 211th pick overall. The Oilers released him on August 28, 1995.

Arizona Cardinals
On November 8, 1995, Richardson signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He made an appearance in the Cardinals' November 12 game against the Minnesota Vikings, but was placed on injured reserve the following day and remained there for the rest of the season.

Richardson officially became a free agent on February 15, 1996. He re-signed with the Cardinals on March 22, but was later waived by the team.

Seattle Seahawks
On June 25, 1996, Richardson was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Seahawks. He was released on August 20, and spent the 1996 season out of football.

On March 5, 1997, Richardson signed again with the Seahawks. He played 14 games with the Seahawks during their 1997 season.

Richardson retired in 1998 following multiple severe arm injuries.

Life after football
Richardson is currently the head football coach and athletic coordinator at H. Grady Spruce High School. He has two children, Carl III and Krystal.