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Holy Cross High School recently welcomed former NFL standout Patrick Kerney to speak with the Crusaders varsity football team.

Mr. Kerney enjoyed an accomplished 11-year NFL career as a defensive end with the Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks after being selected by Atlanta in the first round of the 1999 NFL Draft. A two-time All-Pro selection in 2004 and 2007, he finished his professional career with 82.5 sacks, 95 tackles for loss, and 486 total tackles. Kerney once started more than 100 consecutive NFL games at one of football’s most physically demanding positions before a pectoral injury ended the streak.

Before reaching the NFL, Kerney starred at the University of Virginia, where he earned First Team All-American honors. Recruited initially to play lacrosse for the Cavaliers, he became one of the nation’s top defensive football players and served as team captain during his senior season. He was also named one of five finalists for the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Award, presented annually to the nation’s top defensive player.

Since retiring from football, Mr. Kerney has built a successful career in business and financial services. A graduate of The Taft School, the University of Virginia, and Columbia Business School, he previously served as Vice President of NFL Player Benefits, where he helped restructure veterans’ 401(k) plans, educated former players on financial planning and security, and established a financial boot camp program for NFL athletes. He is also the founder of Kerney Insurance in Greenwich, Connecticut.

Mr. Kerney’s visit was especially meaningful as he is a longtime friend and former teammate of Holy Cross Principal Mr. Tommy Pompei. During his presentation, he shared valuable insights on leadership, perseverance, discipline, and preparing for success beyond athletics.