Jared Bernhardt starred in football and lacrosse growing up. However, it was the latter that he specialized in throughout college. A five year player at the University of Maryland, Bernhardt had an impressive resume ending his career as Maryland's all-time record holder in career points (290), goals (202), single-season points (99), single-season goals (71), goals in a single NCAA Tournament (18) and points in a single NCAA Tournament (24) along with many other accolades, including the Tewaaraton Award, which recognizes the most outstanding lacrosse player on a yearly basis.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
After his fifth season at Maryland ended, Bernhardt decided to enroll at Ferris State as a graduate transfer student, where he led the football team to a perfect 14-0 record and starred as the Quarterback for a Division II Championship Team. He did all this while taking a 5 year break from the sport.
His story didn't end there, though. He had his sights on something bigger.
After going undrafted in April of 2022, the touted dual-sport athlete signed a free agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons. But a deal is one thing–a guaranteed spot is another. However, he managed to secure his spot and scored a game-winning touchdown in preseason against the Lions. Though, a few weeks into the regular season he'd sustain a season-ending injury.
Though he didn't follow in the footsteps of his two older brothers who joined the Premier Lacrosse League, Bernhardt will continue to look to turn heads in football just as he did in high school.
Have an idea for a story or a question you need answered? Want to set up an interview with us? Email us at [email protected]
Image Credit: NCAA
* Originally published on January 6, 2023, by Nicholas Nathanson
