Richard James Scanlon (born December 23, 1980) is a former American football linebacker. He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at Syracuse. Scanlon has also played for the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants.

Early life

Scanlon grew up in Oradell, New Jersey, and was a standout player at Bergen Catholic High School, where he was named the New Jersey Defensive Player of the Year by The Star-Ledger (Newark, New Jersey) in 1998.

College career

He appeared in 43 games (27 starts) for Syracuse University and recorded 277 tackles, 4 sacks, two interceptions, three fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles and eight passes defensed. Scanlon graduated with a degree in Exercise Science, with an eye toward attending medical school.

Professional career

Kansas City Chiefs

Scanlon signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2004, played with the Berlin Thunder in 2005 and remained with the Chiefs through the 2007 preseason, when he was released during final cuts.

Tennessee Titans

On October 31, 2007, he signed with the Tennessee Titans.

New York Giants

Scanlon was signed by the New York Giants on December 30, 2008, when Edmond Miles was released.