Rich was born and raised in Bethlehem, PA, and then attended Temple University until he was signed as a free-agent by the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL) where he was an offensive lineman. Rich later played for the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Stars, (USFL) and the San Antonio Gunslingers (USFL). During his third year in professional football, when he was confronted with authentic, biblical Christianity, Rich surrendered his life to Jesus Christ.
In his off seasons began speaking about Christ in schools, church youth groups, and prisons around the country. In 1986 he retired from professional football to work full time for Sports World Ministries. He has served as a youth minister for his local church, and for the past fifteen seasons he has been co-chaplain for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA.
Rich is currently the field evangelist for Soldiers for Faith. He has been married to his wife, Jan for 26 yrs. They have four children, Kelly, Rich, David and Daniel.