Paul "Skip" Rickert (born January 14, 1961) is an American former professional gridiron football player who primarily played as a running back. He is best known for his collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC) and his brief stint in the National Football League (NFL).
Early Life and College Career
Born in Anaheim, California, Rickert attended Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, where he distinguished himself as a talented athlete. He went on to play college football for the USC Trojans from 1979 to 1982. During his time at USC, Rickert was a prominent member of a highly successful program, known for its powerful running game. He contributed to the Trojans' success, including their shared national championship in 1978 (though his most impactful seasons were subsequent to this). He was a key component of the backfield alongside other notable USC running backs of that era. His collegiate career showcased his abilities as a strong, north-south runner.
Professional Career
Rickert's performance at USC earned him attention from professional scouts. He was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the 10th round (274th overall) of the 1983 NFL Draft. He later spent time with the Buffalo Bills. However, his professional career was short-lived, primarily due to injuries, and he did not achieve significant statistical milestones in the NFL.
Legacy
Despite a brief professional career, Paul "Skip" Rickert is remembered as a successful collegiate player for one of college football's most storied programs. He was part of a revered era of USC football, contributing to a legacy of dominant running backs.