John Urschel is one of the more unique personalities in recent memory to play in the NFL. He has the unique distinction of being a doctoral candidate in applied mathematics at MIT. 

Urschel will talk about how sports and math intersect as the keynote speaker at the Penn State Sports Analytics Conference. He will also hold a question and answer session on April 12 at 7 p.m. at the State Theatre. 

In a release, Urschel talked about what excites him about the speaking engagement. 

"I hope to be living proof that sports and math can coexist," said Urschel. "Penn State has a terrific math department — and, in my very unbiased opinion, the best athletics program in the country. I'm excited to be a part of this opportunity to grow each area, helping foster new ideas and approaches by bringing them into contact." 

The entire conference is free and open to the public. Most of the activities take place on April 13, including an undergraduate student abstract competition. 

Urschel played football at Penn State from 2010-13 while earning bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics. During his time on campus, he won the Williams V. Campbell Trophy, which is also referred to as the "Academic Heisman." 

Urschel was also a standout on the football field, winning back-to-back first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2012 and 2013. The Baltimore Ravens went on to select him in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. 

Urschel spent three seasons with the Ravens before retiring last year. He began pursuing his Ph.D. at MIT in 2016 and was named one of to Forbes "30 Under 30" lists of outstanding young scientists in 2017. 

To inquire about John Urschel's speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

John Urschel Speaks at the Project Lead the Way Summit: