Larry Rountree III Bio
Larry Rountree III (born February 13, 1999) is an American professional football running back. He currently plays for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Rountree began his career after a standout college tenure at the University of Missouri, where he set the school record for career rushing yards by a running back.
Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Rountree spent time with multiple professional organizations before joining the Birmingham Stallions and winning a championship in the United Football League (UFL). He is recognized for his durability, vision as a runner, and contributions in both the rushing and passing games.
Early Life and Background
Larry Rountree III was born on February 13, 1999, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up in the same city and attended Millbrook High School, where he developed into a productive running back. Rountree comes from an athletic family background that supported his early interest in football and helped shape his work ethic.
As a senior at Millbrook, Rountree posted impressive numbers, rushing for 1,147 yards on 201 carries and scoring 21 touchdowns. His performance drew attention from college recruiters across the country, and he ultimately committed to the University of Missouri to play at the Division I level. That decision launched his path toward a professional football career.
Path to American Football
Rountree’s transition from high school star to collegiate contributor began in 2017, when he enrolled at the University of Missouri. As a true freshman, he played in all 13 games for the Missouri Tigers and rushed for 703 yards on 126 carries with six touchdowns. His early production suggested a bright future within the program’s offensive backfield.
By his sophomore season, Rountree had earned the role of starting running back, a position he held for the remainder of his college career. He continued to develop as a between-the-tackles runner, showing a balance of speed, patience, and physicality. These traits, combined with his consistent availability, positioned him for a future opportunity at the professional level.
Larry Rountree III Career
Early Career (2017–2020)
During his four seasons at Missouri, Rountree established himself as one of the most productive running backs in program history. As a sophomore, he rushed 225 times for 1,216 yards and 11 touchdowns, demonstrating his capability as a feature back. The following year, he added 829 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 186 carries as a junior.
In his senior season of 2020, Rountree set the Missouri school record for career rushing yards by a running back, finishing with 3,720 yards. He capped the year with 972 rushing yards and earned second-team All-SEC honors in recognition of his play. His college résumé made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams seeking a reliable, experienced back.
NFL Career (2021–2023)
Rountree was selected in the sixth round, 198th overall, of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. He made an early impact by scoring his first NFL touchdown on a one-yard rush in a Week 10 game against the Minnesota Vikings during his rookie season. He appeared in games for the Chargers across two seasons, contributing on offense and special teams.
In August 2022, Rountree was waived by the Chargers and re-signed to the team’s practice squad, where he was later promoted to the active roster. After brief stints on the practice squad and active roster, he was waived in August 2023. He signed with the Houston Texans shortly after, though his time there was limited, and he was released in September 2023.
UFL Career (2024–2025)
On January 19, 2024, Rountree signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League. He joined a championship-caliber organization and contributed to a successful campaign, culminating in a victory in the 2024 UFL Championship Game. Rountree re-signed with the Stallions on August 28, 2024, signaling his continued role within the team’s offense.
CFL Career (2026–Present)
On January 26, 2026, Rountree signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League. The move represented a new chapter in his professional journey, bringing his skills to the Canadian game. His NFL and UFL experience positioned him as a veteran presence within the Tiger-Cats’ offensive backfield.
Driving Style and Strengths
Rountree is recognized for his patience as a runner, allowing blocks to develop before committing to a lane. He combines a compact frame with strong leg drive, making him effective in short-yardage and between-the-tackles situations. His reliability in pass protection and his willingness to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield have made him a versatile offensive asset.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of Rountree’s most significant early milestones was scoring his first NFL touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings in 2021. He later set the Missouri Tigers’ career rushing record for a running back in 2020, finishing with 3,720 yards. In 2024, he added a UFL championship to his résumé as a member of the Birmingham Stallions.
Larry Rountree III Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Larry Rountree III was raised in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he attended Millbrook High School. His family supported his early development in football, and his upbringing in the region helped shape his path toward a career in the sport. Details about his broader family and personal life are not widely documented in public sources.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represented a transitional period for Rountree, as he continued his tenure with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL. He re-signed with the organization in August 2024, providing continuity within the team’s offensive system. His veteran presence and familiarity with the playbook allowed him to remain a steady contributor throughout the campaign.
During the 2025 season, Rountree served in a complementary role within the Stallions’ backfield, contributing as a runner and pass catcher while supporting younger players. His championship experience from the 2024 UFL title provided a foundation for his continued professional development. The season reinforced his reputation as a durable, team-oriented back capable of producing in a variety of offensive situations.