Henry Ruggs III, a former NFL wide receiver, gained fame for his blazing speed and explosive plays on the field. However, his career took a tragic turn following a fatal car crash in 2021. Despite his legal troubles, many fans remain curious about Henry Ruggs net worth, his earnings during his NFL career, and his financial future.
In this article, we’ll explore Ruggs’ career, contracts, endorsements, legal issues, and how they’ve impacted his wealth. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions about his finances.
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Who Is Henry Ruggs?
Henry Ruggs III was born on January 24, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama. He played college football at the University of Alabama, where he became known for his elite speed and playmaking ability. Ruggs was selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the first round (12th overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Early Life and College Career
Ruggs attended Robert E. Lee High School, where he excelled in football and track. His speed made him a standout athlete, leading him to commit to the University of Alabama.
At Alabama, Ruggs was part of a dominant receiving corps alongside Jerry Jeudy and DeVonta Smith. He helped the Crimson Tide win the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship.
NFL Career with the Las Vegas Raiders
Ruggs entered the NFL with high expectations. His rookie contract with the Raiders was a four-year deal worth 16.67million∗∗,includinga∗∗9.68 million signing bonus.
During his brief NFL career, Ruggs showed flashes of brilliance, recording:
- 50 receptions
- 921 receiving yards
- 4 touchdowns
However, his career was cut short due to off-field issues.
Henry Ruggs Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Ruggs’s net worth is estimated to be between 1millionand3 million. This figure includes his NFL earnings, endorsements, and other financial ventures.
NFL Contracts and Earnings
Ruggs’ primary source of wealth came from his NFL contract:
- Base Salary (2020-2023): $6.99 million
- Signing Bonus: $9.68 million
- Total Career Earnings: ~$16.67 million
However, following his legal issues, the Raiders released him, and he faced financial penalties.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Before his legal troubles, Ruggs had endorsement deals with brands like:
- Nike
- Panini America (trading cards)
These deals contributed to his net worth but were likely terminated after his arrest.
Legal Issues and Financial Impact
In November 2021, Ruggs drove under the influence and caused a fatal crash that killed 23-year-old Tina Tintor. Authorities charged him with DUI resulting in death, and he faced up to 50 years in prison.
In May 2023, Ruggs pleaded guilty to felony DUI and was sentenced to 3-10 years in prison.
Financial Consequences:
- Lost NFL Salary: His contract was voided, costing him millions.
- Legal Fees: High-profile attorneys likely cost him hundreds of thousands.
- Civil Lawsuit: The victim’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit, potentially leading to a multi-million dollar settlement.
How Does Henry Ruggs Make Money Now?
With his NFL career over and legal battles ongoing, Ruggs’ income sources are limited. Possible revenue streams include:
- NFL Pension: Players with at least three seasons qualify, but Ruggs only played 1.5.
- Investments: If he made smart investments, he may have residual income.
- Future Opportunities: Depending on his legal situation, he could write a book or pursue public speaking post-release.
Henry Ruggs Net Worth Compared to Other NFL Wide Receivers
To put Ruggs’ wealth into perspective, here’s how his net worth compares to other NFL receivers:
| Player | Net Worth (2024) | Career Earnings |
| Tyreek Hill | $40 million | $120 million+ |
| DeVonta Smith | $12 million | $20 million+ |
| Henry Ruggs | $1-3 million | $16.67 million |
Ruggs’ net worth is significantly lower due to his shortened career and legal troubles.
FAQs
Q: What Was Henry Ruggs’ Salary with the Raiders?
A: Ruggs’ rookie contract was worth 16.67million ,with 9.68 million signing bonus. His annual salary averaged around $4 million.
Q: Did Henry Ruggs Lose His NFL Money?
A: Yes. After his release, he lost future earnings. He may have also spent millions on legal fees and settlements.
Q: Does Henry Ruggs Still Get Paid by the NFL?
A: No. Since he was released, he no longer receives an NFL salary. He may qualify for a small pension if he meets the requirements.
Q: What Is Henry Ruggs’ Biggest Source of Wealth?
A: His NFL signing bonus ($9.68 million) was his biggest payout. However, legal issues likely drained much of it.
Q: Will Henry Ruggs Return to the NFL?
A: Given his prison sentence and the severity of his charges, an NFL comeback is highly unlikely.
Conclusion
Henry Ruggs net worth stands at an estimated $1-3 million in 2024, a fraction of what it could have been had his NFL career continued. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of off-field decisions.
While Ruggs had the potential to become one of the league’s highest-paid receivers, his legal troubles derailed his career and finances. His future earnings will depend on how he rebuilds his life post-incarceration.
