The opportunities for and leadership from fifth-year seniors are among the most special each year of Stanford Football. At the dawn of this new year, several of our Cardinal academic seniors with a remaining season of eligibility have decided to return for their fifth year. Already hard at work this winter, they are proud to share their aspirations and motivations in 2017 with our Season Ticket Members.
"I am returning for my fifth year because I feel I have some unfinished business to take care of on the field, and I have an opportunity to play at the next level if I have a great year. Additionally, the prospect of being able to get my master's degree at the same time has always been a motivating factor for me." – OL David Bright
"Stanford is the best school in the country with the best people in the country. I figured I have a great opportunity in coming back, getting another degree and learning from some phenomenal coaches for another year. It's also very important to me to prove to this team and to myself that I can be so much better than I was last year." – QB Ryan Burns
"My motivation for returning is wanting to be a part of – and witness to – the young guys fulfilling their potential. Personally, I want to get everything I can from Stanford, and a fifth year allows me to do just that. A lot of guys don't have that opportunity. This applies to both school and football, and my primary goals this year are finishing my undergrad in Civil Engineering above a 3.0 and contributing the most yet to this football team as a starter on the defensive side of the ball." – DE Eric Cotton
"I love the guys in the locker room, and I think we can be special this season." – OLB Peter Kalambayi
"I talked it over with my family, and we all decided it was the best decision. I knew if I came back, I wanted to pursue a coterminal degree program. I chose the Sustainable Urban Systems track for a master's degree, under the Sustainable Design and Construction program. I've already applied and am waiting to hear back. For football, the goal has always been to pursue the next level, and this fifth year will give me that opportunity." – ILB Kevin Palma
"I'm returning for a fifth-year to take full advantage of the opportunities in front of me. 'Wring It Dry,' as it says on the wall in our locker room. Not only am I aiming to graduate with a master's degree in Management Science & Engineering, but also I am taking another year to grind with this team and pursue championships. I am motivated by the future ahead of me. Whether it's playing Sundays or excelling in an office nine-to-five, this fifth year will prepare me for what lies ahead." – OLB Mike Tyler