RUSTON, La. – After spending six years as the defensive line coach at Louisiana Tech, and over 40 years of collegiate coaching, Rick Petri has announced his retirement from the game of football.
 
Statement from Rick Petri
"It's time!
 
After 43 years of never having to go to work, it's time to step away from the game of football and spend time with my wife, sons, daughter-in-law, grandsons and family!
 
I am so thankful to the head coaches I worked for and assistants/support staff I worked with, but most of all, the players I was fortunate enough to have shared their college experiences with.  They have given me so much and hopefully; I gave them a little in return.  It is my hope to travel and get reacquainted with these men and share some fond memories.
 
Lastly, I hate leaving this group of young players here at Louisiana Tech.  I see greatness in their future.  I will always be watching."
 
Statement from Head Coach Skip Holtz
"We can never thank Rick enough for his commitment to Louisiana Tech and the job he's done here," head coach Skip Holtz remarked. "We wish him and his family nothing but peace and happiness with his decision."
 
Petri began his second stint at Louisiana Tech back in 2015. During his time with the Bulldogs, Petri oversaw the development of some of the most talented defensive linemen to come through Ruston, including NFL talents such as Jaylon Ferguson and Vernon Butler.
 
In 2019, Petri helped direct a defensive line that posted the first shutout in Independence Bowl history, while the Bulldogs claimed their sixth consecutive bowl victory.
 
Prior to his time at Louisiana Tech, Petri spent time at Duke, Ole Miss, Miami, South Carolina and Kentucky among others throughout his storied coaching career.
 
Petri's Coaching Experience
1977-78, Pittsburgh State – Graduate Assistant
1979-88, Arkansas State – Defensive Line
1989-91, Ole Miss – Defensive Line
1992, Louisiana Tech – Defensive Line
1993-95, Miami (Fla.) – Defensive Line
1996-98, South Carolina – Defensive Line
1998-2004, Ole Miss – Defensive Line
2005-09, Kentucky – Defensive Line
2010, Miami – Defensive Line
2011-14, Duke – Defensive Line
2015-19, Louisiana Tech – Defensive Line