Richardson played both baseball and football at H. Grady Spruce High School in Dallas.[2] He earned All-State and All-American honors in football in 1989 and 1990.[3]
Richardson originally intended to play both baseball and football at the University of Miami, but was forced to focus on football after having to battle for a starting spot at safety on the Hurricanes football team.[2] He played three seasons with the Hurricanes from 1992–1994,[4] being named an All-American at the end of his 1994 season.[2]
He received a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the university in 1995.[3]
The Houston Oilers drafted Richardson in the seventh round of the 1995 NFL draft, with the 211th pick overall.[1] The Oilers released him on August 28, 1995.[5]
On November 8, 1995, Richardson signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals.[5] He made an appearance in the Cardinals' November 12 game against the Minnesota Vikings,[6] but was placed on injured reserve the following day and remained there for the rest of the season.[5]
Richardson officially became a free agent on February 15, 1996. He re-signed with the Cardinals on March 22, but was later waived by the team.[5]
Seattle Seahawks
On June 25, 1996, Richardson was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Seahawks. He was released on August 20, and spent the 1996 season out of football.[5]
On March 5, 1997, Richardson signed again with the Seahawks.[5] He played 14 games with the Seahawks during their 1997 season.[1]
Richardson retired in 1998 following multiple severe arm injuries.[3]
Personal life
Richardson is currently the head football coach and athletic coordinator at H. Grady Spruce High School. He has two children, Carl III and Krystal.[3]