This was only the third time in franchise history that the Cowboys used a first round pick on an offensive lineman, with John Niland and Robert Shaw being chosen before.
In Richards' second season, he was the starter at left guard, but split time the next year with All-Pro Herb Scott.
Richards was named the starter at right guard for the 1986 season, but injuries stalled his progress again and he only appeared in nine games (two starts).
Richards was waived on June 18, 1987, along with many other well-known Cowboys veterans, after the franchise's first losing season in 22 years.
He played in two games, before suffering a knee injury against the Detroit Lions and being placed on the injured reserve list on October 20.
He currently works as the football color analyst for the University of Missouri on Learfield Sports' Tiger Radio Network.
Additionally, he is the Senior Manager of External Relations for the College of Arts and Science at Missouri.