Joseph J. Foy, Ph.D. President | Benedictine University

Benedictine University recently hosted Chris Doering, a former NFL player and current SEC Network analyst, as part of its Journeys in Leadership (JIL) series. The event took place on November 6 in the Sorensen Hall of Leaders at Goodwin Hall.

The JIL series, which began in 2020, is funded by the Becker Endowment and features speakers from various professional and academic backgrounds. It aims to share the achievements and challenges faced by leaders at different levels.

During his visit, Doering shared insights from his time as a college football player at the University of Florida, his NFL career, and his work in sports broadcasting and entrepreneurship. He is known for his role as an analyst on SEC Network's programs such as SEC Now and SEC Football Final. Since joining ESPN in August 2015, he has also been part of SEC This Morning on both SEC Network and Sirius XM.

Doering's football journey started as a walk-on at the University of Florida, where he set an SEC record with 17 touchdowns in one season. His college career included being named a second-team All-American and first-team All-SEC selection while contributing to three consecutive SEC Championships from 1993 to 1995.

In 1996, Doering was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking the beginning of his decade-long NFL career. He played for several teams including the Washington Commanders, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite suffering a severe Achilles injury early on, he achieved notable success with 42 receptions for 476 yards and three touchdowns.