Paris O. Ford

Paris Odell Ford, born June 6, 1998, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is an American football player known as “BOP”. Versatility, playmaking ability, and relentless drive. Growing up in Pittsburgh, I attended Steel Valley High School, excelling as both a defensive back and wide receiver. A nationally ranked prospect, earned All-State honors and played in the Under Armour All-American Game, establishing myself as a standout athlete from a young age.

I chose to stay close to home for college, committing to the University of Pittsburgh. After redshirting his first year, I quickly became a starting safety by his redshirt sophomore season, recording 97 tackles, three interceptions, and multiple forced fumbles. His performance earned him first-team All-ACC honors in 2019. During the 2020 season, he opted out partway through to focus on his family, education, and preparation for the NFL draft—a decision that reflected his priorities off the field.

Despite college success, I went
went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft but signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a free agent. I was waived before the season but continued his professional career in alternative leagues, including the New Jersey Generals in the USFL and later the Massachusetts Pirates in the Indoor Football League. Known for his aggressive style, strong tackling, and instinctive playmaking, Ford has proven himself effective on the field even without elite combine numbers.

Off the field, I deeply rooted in family and community. He is one of six siblings and has consistently expressed a desire to represent his hometown and serve as a role model. My journey has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. While on house arrest, he lost his big brother, Dameon Hill Jr., who was tragically shot in the back of the head on February 20, 2025, in the Garfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh. This loss has profoundly impacted Paris and strengthened his resolve to succeed and honor his family’s legacy.

Now, Paris is on what he calls his “comeback tour,” determined to turn setbacks into legendary achievements. With resilience, focus, and an unwavering drive, he is positioning himself for one of the greatest finishes in modern football, proving that perseverance and purpose can transform adversity into triumph