Rams Kobie Turner to Deliver 2026 Commencement Speech at University of Richmond
On March 24 2026, the University of Richmond announced that former Spiders star Kobie Turner—now a Los Angeles Rams defensive end—would deliver the 2026 commencement address. The announcement was later captured in a June 18 2026 video that follows Turner back to his Virginia alma mater as part of the Rams’ “Behind the Grind” series presented by Cedars‑Sinai.
Turner, who earned a double major in mathematics and music at Richmond, is known for his vocal talent and his musical project “The Conductor.” In the clip, he walks the campus, greets alumni, and speaks to a crowd of roughly 840 graduates and their families about the importance of perseverance and the balance between athletics, academics, and personal interests. He also performs a short musical segment that ties into the Conductor theme, a project he began while at Richmond.
The University’s press release highlighted Turner’s academic background and professional achievements, positioning him as a model for the graduating class. The university’s website lists the event as a key highlight of the spring graduation season.
The “Behind the Grind” series has followed the Rams through the 2026 offseason, covering training camps, draft activities, and player off‑field stories. Episodes have taken the team to Australia, Maui for a minicamp, and a tour of the Rams’ training facilities. Produced by the Rams’ media department, the series is distributed through the team’s official website and social‑media channels.
In the June 18 video, Turner reconnects with former teammates and friends, revisits the moment that inspired his musical project, and delivers the commencement address. The university’s announcement noted that his role as speaker is part of an effort to showcase alumni who have achieved success in diverse fields.
The Richmond Spiders compete in NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as a member of the Patriot League. The Rams’ offseason program, which began in April 2026, included voluntary organized team activities and mandatory minicamps. The team’s media releases have highlighted player development and community engagement, and Turner’s return is one of several player‑led outreach events promoted during the offseason.
The video is available on the Rams’ official website under the “Behind the Grind” section and is also shared on the team’s social‑media accounts. It is part of a broader effort by the Rams to connect with fans through behind‑the‑scenes content.
The University of Richmond’s commencement ceremony will take place in May 2026, with Turner’s speech scheduled as a highlight. The event is expected to draw alumni, students, and community members. The university’s official statement emphasized Turner’s dual background in mathematics and music as a model for graduates.
The “Behind the Grind” series has been well received by fans for its candid look at player life and team culture. The series’ partnership with Cedars‑Sinai underscores the Rams’ commitment to community and health initiatives.
Turner’s appearance at Richmond also reflects the broader trend of professional athletes engaging with their alma maters. The university’s announcement noted that his participation will inspire current students and reinforce the institution’s reputation for producing well‑rounded graduates.
The event is part of the Rams’ ongoing community outreach during the offseason, which includes clinics, charity events, and educational programs. The team’s media releases have highlighted the importance of giving back to the communities that support the franchise.
In summary, Kobie Turner will serve as the 2026 commencement speaker at the University of Richmond, returning to his Virginia roots to address graduates, share his journey from the Richmond Spiders to the Los Angeles Rams, and perform a musical piece that ties into his “Conductor” project. The event is documented in a video released on June 18 2026 as part of the Rams’ “Behind the Grind” series presented by Cedars‑Sinai.
