Poker Star Elected to NFL Hall of Fame

It is certainly the case that a number of top athletes enjoy the odd game of poker or two, as well as other table games that can boost their bank balances and focus the mind, but some pro sports figures have taken this a step further than just being a pastime.

Three-time Super Bowl winner Richard Seymour is known to be quite a decent poker player since he called time on his American football career back in 2021. Indeed the 42-year-old has racked up poker tournament winnings of over $640k, and he has finally been inducted into the NFL hall of fame.

The defensive lineman played a key role in helping the New England Patriots to three Super Bowl wins in four years. He was part of Tom Brady’s initial run of success as Pats quarterback, and Bill Belichick will hope that heady days will return, and if they build on last season’s solid run to the playoffs, then maybe they’ll be a team worth backing in NFL Super Bowl odds live as young quarterback Mac Jones continues to make an impact.

Indeed Seymour is still well regarded by Pats fans, and they will no doubt be happy to see that the Georgia State alumni have received his place in the Hall of Fame.

His efforts for the Patriots were lauded by owner Robert Kraft, who released a glowing statement following the induction.

“He laid the foundation for a defense that helped propel the Patriots to three Super Bowl championships in his first four seasons in the NFL.”

“Richard was the consummate professional and leader, always accepting the roles he was assigned, putting team goals ahead of personal ones, and in turn, raising the game of everyone around him.”

Seymour was always a big fan of poker but apparently took it more seriously once he retired from pro football. He even went to the lengths of organizing player tournaments with dealers on hand; such was his growing interest in the game.

And that love for poker, much like his obvious love for American football, has proven very profitable for the South Carolina-born defensive tackle. On his success in poker, he points out the similarities in mindsets between the players of both games.

“Once you’re done playing football, you still have a competitive drive. Poker is an outlet for me where I have a competitive drive; you have to be very cerebral.”

“It requires a lot like it did for me in football – I have to be patient, I have to know how to pick my spots, pay attention to guys’ tendencies. It was just a natural progression after leaving sports at a high level.”

Seymour is a well-respected figure in both worlds, and his comments following his long-awaited inclusion to the Hall of Fame say a lot about his character, determination, and generosity of spirit.

“I humbly and graciously accept this opportunity to stand alongside some of the greatest legends of the game of football.”

“Football has given me the opportunity to live out my dreams and my passion. For that, words will never fully convey my gratitude and appreciation.”

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