Joel Rufus French (born March 15, 1978) is an American former college football player who was a tight end for the Ole Miss Rebels. He was a two-time All-American, earning unanimous honors in 1998. He was also a member of the Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL).
Early life
Joel Rufus French played football and baseball at Amory High School in Amory, Mississippi. He was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 30th round of the 1996 MLB June Amateur Draft.
College career
French chose to play football for the Ole Miss Rebels. He was a unanimous All-American in 1998. French was a first-team All-SEC selection in 1997 and 1998. He was a finalist for the Conerly Trophy in 1998. French finished his college career with 84 receptions, 814 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns. He chose to forgo his senior season and enter the 1999 NFL draft.
Professional career
French signed with the Seattle Seahawks after going undrafted in the 1999 NFL draft. He missed the 2000 season while recovering from a knee injury. He was released by the Seahawks on August 5, 2001.
French was signed by the Green Bay Packers on March 26, 2002. He was released by the Packers on July 23, 2002.
Legal issues
In April 2024, French was charged for his alleged involvement in an over $70 million fraud case. French, who managed several durable medical equipment companies, and his co-conspirators used illegally obtained doctors orders to bill Medicare for medically unneccesary medical equipment.
References
External links
- NFL Draft Scout
