
Desmond Howard
Heisman Trophy Winner, Super Bowl Champion and ESPN College Gameday Analyst

Based in Los Angeles, CA
Motivational Sports Speaker
Speaking Fee
$30,000 - $50,000
Travels From
R.K. Russell is a former NFL defensive end, author, poet, and prominent LGBTQ+ advocate. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2015, he played for the Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, appearing in 23 games over his career after starring at Purdue University. In 2019, he made history as the first active NFL player to come out as bisexual in an ESPN essay, sparking widespread discussion on queer visibility in professional sports. Since retiring, Russell has become a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, spearheading NFL Pride initiatives and writing for publications such as The New York Times and The Guardian. His acclaimed memoir, “The Yards Between Us” (2023), details his journey through football, identity, and love. He also produced the award-winning short documentary “Finding Free” (2021) and has earned honors, including Athlete Ally's Action Award and OUT 100 recognition.
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Contact Athlete Speakers today at 800-916-6008 to book R.K. Russell for your next corporate event, speaking engagement, endorsement, VIP meet-and-greet, virtual meeting, social media campaign, or other appearance. The booking agents at Athlete Speakers work to secure the best rates for your preferred sports personality.
For over 25 years, Athlete Speakers has partnered with corporations to find the perfect sports speakers for their events. With more than 10,000 events booked since 1999, our direct relationships with athletes, coaches, sports agencies, and public relations firms help us secure the most competitive talent fees for our clients. Our experienced agents and logistical coordinators will work closely with you to provide R.K. Russell's most recent speaking fee, appearance cost, and availability.
Looking to book R.K. Russell for your next event? As a Former NFL Player, Author, Poet & Social Justice Advocate for the LGBTQ+, R.K. Russell brings a unique perspective and engaging presence to corporate events, conferences, charity galas, grand openings, golf tournaments and special appearances. The speaking fee for R.K. Russell typically falls within the $30,000 - $50,000 range, depending on factors such as event location, type, and duration. Athlete Speakers offers transparent pricing and will provide a detailed quote tailored to your event needs. To check availability, request a quote, or learn more about booking R.K. Russell, contact Athlete Speakers at 800-916-6008 or submit a booking request.
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Football is the ultimate team sport and the most-watched sport in America. The best players on the field and the coaches on the sidelines become immortalized legends and top football speakers. As the NFL and college football continues to grow, corporate groups, charities, universities, faith-based groups, and other organizations understand the value of having a current or retired NFL or college football player, coach, or broadcaster at their event. Football speakers are big hits for speaking engagements, virtual meetings, Super Bowl party appearances, college football bowl appearances, tailgate parties, virtual events, and more!
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AthleteSpeakers is an independent speakers bureau that assists organizations with booking talent such as R.K. Russell for speaking engagements, appearances, and events. We do not claim exclusive representation. All speaking fees and availability are estimates and subject to final confirmation with the R.K. Russell's authorized representatives. Read full disclaimer.
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