Ken Riley's family to receive his Pro Football Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence

Hall of Famers Published on : 11/1/2023
  • Bengals to honor former defensive back with celebration and ring presentation at Paycor Stadium on Nov. 5

The Pro Football Hall of Fame and Kay® Jewelers, the Official Provider of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence, will honor Class of 2023 enshrinee KEN RILEY with a special halftime ceremony Sunday, Nov. 5.

Barbara Riley will receive her late husband Ken’s Ring of Excellence when the Cincinnati Bengals host the Buffalo Bills on “Sunday Night Football.” Hall of Fame Chief Relationship Officer Adrian Allison as well as Pro Football Hall of Famer and Bengals legend ANTHONY MUĂ‘OZ will be on hand for the ceremony at Paycor Stadium, with the game slated to begin at 8:20 p.m. ET. 

The Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is one of three iconic symbols, along with the Hall of Fame Gold Jacket, created by Haggar, and the Bronze Bust, that represent the elite status of being a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Each living Enshrinee from the Class of 2023 received his Hall of Fame Gold Jacket and unveiled his Bronze Bust during Enshrinement Week in early August.

All three representations of membership in sports’ most exclusive club will be displayed during the special presentation for Bengals fans to pay tribute to Riley. 


Fellow classmate DARRELLE REVIS will receive his Ring of Excellence the following day, as the New York Jets appear on “Monday Night Football.” 


Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence

The spectacular Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is set in 14K gold with a total diamond weight of 1.75 carats. It is much more than a beautiful piece of jewelry, however. Intricate details on the ring reflect the special significance of enshrinement. 
  • The outer diamonds create a “stadium” effect surrounding the football-shaped diamond center. 
  • The vibrant blue gemstone was selected both for appearance and meaning, as blue is often associated with confidence, power and integrity — all traits of these incredible, legendary football icons. 
  • Riley’s Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is customized to reflect his unique career. A likeness of his Bronze Bust, along with “Cornerback” and “1969-1983” (his years in the NFL), appear on one side, while “Riley,” the Pro Football Hall of Fame logo and “Class of 2023” are included on the other.
  • Additionally, a special arbormark (or engraving) appears on the inside of the ring — 368 — which is his Enshrinee number.