About Ricky Hunley
Athlete. Coach. Leader.
Ricky Cardell Hunley is a College Football Hall of Famer, NFL veteran, and respected coach whose influence reaches far beyond the field. Born in Petersburg, Virginia, he became the first University of Arizona Wildcat to earn consensus All-American honors twice, setting the foundation for a seven-season NFL career and a lifetime dedicated to leadership and service. Today, Ricky mentors student athletes, supports community programs, and plays a vital role in shaping the culture of Arizona football.
Legacy in Motion
This prologue serves as a complete visual introduction to the Legacy in Motion project. Created as a stand-alone piece for Ricky’s site, it offers a cinematic look at his journey, his values, and the impact he continues to make on and off the field.
1970s
Grew up in Petersburg, Virginia. Excelled in football at Petersburg High School and earned statewide recognition for his dual sport athletic ability including winning the 1979 State Football Championship.
1981 to 1983
Dominant linebacker for the University of Arizona. Became the first Wildcat to earn consensus All-American honors twice and was named Pac-10 Co-Defensive Player of the Year.
Played seven seasons in the NFL with the Denver Broncos, Phoenix Cardinals, and Los Angeles Raiders.
1992 to 2010
Transitioned into coaching. Served at USC, Missouri, Florida, the Washington Redskins, Cincinnati Bengals, Oakland Raiders, and Memphis Tigers.
1984 to 1991
2011 to Present
Executive Director of Player Relations and External Development at the University of Arizona. Active community leader and mentor supporting youth development and education.
Achievements and Honors
• Unanimous College Football All-American (1983)
• Consensus College Football All-American (1982)
• Pac-10 Co-Defensive Player of the Year (1983)
• First-team All-Pac-10 (1981 to 1983)
• College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1998)
• Selected First Team PAC12 All-Century Team (Linebacker) – 2016
• Petersburg High School Hall of Fame (Individual 1997, Team 2025)
• Virginia Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (2018, Team 2025)
• State of Arizona Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (2025)
• Arizona Wildcats Jersey No. 89 Retired
Book Ricky to Speak
Invite Ricky to bring his message of leadership, resilience, and teamwork to your team or organization.