NASHVILLE — Tennessee State University football announced the addition of NFL Hall of Famer and TSU legend Richard Dent as Special Advisor to Head Coach Reggie Barlow.

"When I was blessed to take this job, I quickly learned just how rich the legacy of Tennessee State football truly is, and there's no name that represents that legacy more than Richard Dent," Barlow said. "From the beginning, one of my goals was to reconnect our former greats with this program and make sure our players understand the standard that was set before them."

Dent, a former Tennessee State standout and member of the TSU Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 1993, returns to his alma mater after one of the most distinguished careers by a defensive lineman in NFL history. In his advisory role, Dent will support program development, player mentorship, alumni engagement, and strategic initiatives.

"The addition of Richard Dent to Coach Barlow's staff brings Hall of Fame experience, proven leadership, and a track record of excellence that will inspire and elevate our student-athletes," said Dr. Mikki Allen, TSU Director of Athletics.

A native of Atlanta, Dent starred at Tennessee State from 1979–82 after being recruited by legendary head coach John Merritt. A two-time All-American, he finished his collegiate career with 158 tackles, 39.5 sacks and six fumble recoveries, setting a single-game school record with 4.5 sacks in 1982. Dent was selected in the eighth round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears.

Dent went on to enjoy a 14-year NFL career, primarily with the Bears, where he became the franchise's all-time sacks leader. He recorded 137.5 career sacks, ranking third in NFL history at the time of his retirement, and earned four Pro Bowl selections, five All-NFC honors and multiple All-Pro distinctions.

"Richard and I spent the last month talking about what this program means and where it's headed," commented Barlow. "Having Richard Dent back involved with Tennessee State football is powerful for our program and a perfect fit for the culture we're building."

His most notable season came in 1985, when he led the NFL with 17 sacks and earned Super Bowl XX MVP honors after recording 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a blocked pass in Chicago's 46–10 victory over New England. Dent is one of only five defensive players in Super Bowl history to be named MVP.

Following additional stops with the San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts and Philadelphia Eagles, Dent retired after the 1997 season. He has since remained active through the "Make a Dent" Foundation, which focuses on empowering youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement, and serves on several civic and educational boards.

Dent was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2008, and the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2015.