Birth date and verified timeline
Jerry Rice was born on October 13, 1962, in Starkville, Mississippi. He is widely regarded as one of the most prolific receivers in NFL history, largely due to his combination of size, speed, route-running precision, and durability. This profile explains his exact date of birth, clarifies common misconceptions, and contextualizes key biographical details that frame his on-field achievements and enduring legacy in professional football.
Early life and background
Rice grew up in Crawford, Mississippi, and later attended Drew High School in nearby Drew, Mississippi. During his high school years, he balanced football with working on family farms, which instilled a strong work ethic. Although he was not heavily recruited out of high school, he earned a spot at Mississippi Valley State University, an historically black university (HBCU) where his skills rapidly developed. His early environment shaped his focus and preparation leading into college and eventually the NFL.
College and pre-draft development
At Mississippi Valley State, Rice faced less coverage leaguewide attention initially, but his production was undeniable. He set numerous records at the Division I-AA level and built a reputation for meticulous preparation and consistent practice habits. Scouts began to take notice as he demonstrated route discipline, contested-catch ability, and reliable hands. His college performance directly influenced his draft trajectory, leading to his selection in the 1985 NFL Draft.
Professional career highlights
Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round (1985), Rice spent the majority of his career with the 49ers, along with notable stints with the Oakland Raiders and the Seattle Seahawks. He won three Super Bowl championships (XXIII, XXIV, XXIX) and was named MVP of Super Bowl XXIX. Rice accumulated 1,549 career receptions and 22,895 receiving yards, both NFL records at the time of his retirement. His consistency and durability were hallmarks of his game, as he played 20 seasons and started 175 consecutive regular-season games. The following table summarizes core career milestones and verified statistics.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birth date | October 13, 1962 | Official biographies and reputable sports databases |
| Primary teams | San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks | NFL records and team archives |
| Super Bowl wins | 3 (XXIII, XXIV, XXIX) | League championship data |
| Career receptions | 1,549 (former NFL record) | Official NFL statistics |
| Career receiving yards | 22,895 (former NFL record) | Official NFL statistics |
| Seasons played | 20 | NFL career logs |
Accolades and legacy
Rice is a 13-time Pro Bowler, a 10-time All-Pro, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. He holds the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown reception and has been frequently ranked at or near the top of greatest-receiver lists. His training habits and in-game preparation are often cited as models for modern receivers. Off the field, he has been an active philanthropist and mentor, emphasizing discipline and education. These achievements contribute to a lasting legacy that extends beyond individual statistics.
Common questions and clarifications
- Is October 13, 1962, universally recognized as his birth date? Official biographies and league records confirm this date as accurate.
- Where was he born? He was born in Starkville, Mississippi, and raised in Drew, Mississippi.
- Did he play other sports in high school or college? He focused primarily on football and track, with football becoming his clear professional path.
- How does he compare to contemporaries in terms of longevity? Rice played 20 seasons, which remains among the longest for receivers in the Super Bowl era.
- What are reliable sources for birth and career data? Verified sources include NFL official archives, team media guides, Hall of Fame records, and reputable reference databases.
Impact on modern receiver training
Rice's routines—emphasizing repetition, film study, and strength maintenance—have influenced coaching curricula and receiver development programs league-wide. Modern players often reference his consistency and adaptability across multiple offensive schemes. By maintaining high standards throughout his career, he set benchmarks for durability and production that remain relevant in contemporary player evaluation and in shaping how teams build their receiving corps over time.
Summary
Jerry Rice was born on October 13, 1962, in Starkville, Mississippi. His combination of physical tools, preparation, and durability made him one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history. Verified data confirm his birth date, career milestones, and lasting influence on the game. For anyone seeking an authoritative understanding of his background, this profile offers a clear, fact-focused overview supported by key dates, career statistics, and contextual insight.