Run, Rich, Run
Rich Eisen, the beloved sports personality and charismatic NFL Network host, has become a household name for his soothing and authoritative voice behind the microphone. However, his annual ritual of running the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine and, more recently, at the NFL Draft has garnered him a unique and endearing place in the hearts of football fans. This tradition, which began as a lighthearted challenge, has evolved into a powerful fundraising campaign for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, making Eisen not just a sports broadcaster but a philanthropic hero as well.
The Humble Beginnings
Eisen’s journey to the 40-yard dash started in 2005 when former NFL running back Terrell Davis issued a playful challenge. The idea was simple: if Eisen could run the 40-yard dash, it would add a humorous and relatable element to the otherwise serious and high-stakes event of the NFL Combine. Recognizing the potential for both entertainment and engagement, Eisen embraced the challenge. Over the years, his participation has become a beloved tradition, one that transcends the boundaries of sports and media.
A New Mission
In 2015, Eisen decided to elevate his annual dash from a mere spectacle to a meaningful philanthropic effort. He launched the #RunRichRun campaign, using his platform and the annual run to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This transition marked a significant shift in the purpose behind his participation. No longer just a humorous segment, Eisen’s run became a symbol of hope and a call to action for donors and supporters worldwide. According to NFL Media, since 2015, Eisen has helped raise an impressive $5.2 million for the charity. His commitment to this cause has not only highlighted the importance of supporting medical research and treatment for children but has also inspired others to use their platforms for good.
The Venue and the Visual
Eisen’s dash has taken place at various iconic locations, reflecting the changing landscape of the NFL’s major events. In 2021, when the NFL Combine was canceled due to the pandemic, Eisen ran at SoFi Stadium, the home of Super Bowl 56. The following year, he sprinted at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, adding to the lore of his annual challenge. One of the most recognizable aspects of Eisen’s run is his attire. He always runs in a suit and tie, a nod to his professional persona and the serious nature of the cause he supports. This image has become so ingrained in sports culture that his sprinting silhouette is the logo for his radio show, the "Rich Eisen Show."
The Numbers Game
While Eisen’s times in the 40-yard dash might not rival those of professional athletes, they have become a point of endearment and a testament to his resilience. His times over the years are a testament to the fact that it’s not about how fast you go but about the intention behind the run. Here’s a breakdown of his times:
- 2005: 6.77 seconds
- 2006: 6.22 seconds
- 2007: 6.43 seconds
- 2008: 6.34 seconds
- 2009: 6.34 seconds
- 2010: 6.21 seconds
- 2011: 6.18 seconds
- 2012: 6.03 seconds
- 2013: 6.03 seconds
- 2014: 5.98 seconds
- 2015: 6.10 seconds
- 2016: 5.94 seconds (his fastest)
- 2017: 6.02 seconds
- 2018: 5.97 seconds
- 2019: 6.00 seconds
- 2020: 5.98 seconds
- 2021: 6.03 seconds
- 2022: 6.16 seconds
- 2023: 6.22 seconds
- 2024: 6.25 seconds
Despite the occasional slow times, Eisen’s consistency and dedication have made his run an annual must-watch event.
The Impact of Philanthropy
Eisen’s transformation from a broadcaster to a fundraiser has had a profound impact. His annual 40-yard dash not only raises money for a worthy cause but also increases awareness and engagement with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event has become a rallying point for fans and the NFL community, with many tuning in specifically to see Eisen’s dash and contribute to the fundraising efforts. The #RunRichRun campaign has also encouraged other sports personalities and celebrities to participate in similar challenges, amplifying the cause and reaching a broader audience.
A Community Effort
Eisen’s run is more than just a personal challenge; it’s a community effort. In 2021, former NFL wide receiver Brandon Marshall offered to help Eisen train, though the training didn’t significantly improve his time. What it did do, however, was highlight the collaborative spirit of the sports world. Many fans and fellow broadcasters have shown their support through donations, social media engagement, and even participating in their own charity runs. Eisen’s annual dash is a reminder that sports can be a powerful vehicle for positive change, bringing people together for a common goal. His continued commitment to the cause, despite his modest athletic abilities, is a testament to the power of determination and the impact one can have when they use their platform for good.
