Ben VanSumeren Bio
Ben VanSumeren is an American professional football fullback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans. VanSumeren began his NFL career as a linebacker and was officially designated as a linebacker for his first two seasons, although he only saw playing time on defense during his rookie season. After the Eagles began playing him at fullback in his second season, VanSumeren officially moved to fullback during the offseason of his third season.
Early Life and Background
Ben VanSumeren was born on May 5, 2000, in Bay City, Michigan. From a young age, he expressed his ambition to become a professional football player. He attended Garber High School in Essexville, where he showcased his versatility by playing various positions including linebacker, defensive lineman, quarterback, running back, and wide receiver. VanSumeren excelled as a receiver, leading Bay County in receiving for three consecutive years. His senior season was particularly impressive, as he set a state record with 81 receptions for 1,259 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning recognition as the division player of the year by the Associated Press. Initially committed to the University of Iowa, he later switched to the University of Michigan after receiving a late offer.
Path to American Football
At the University of Michigan, VanSumeren was recruited to play fullback. He appeared in four games during his true freshman year in 2018, preserving his redshirt status. In 2019, he transitioned to running back, participating in five games and recording five rushes for 20 yards and a touchdown. By 2020, he moved to linebacker, playing six games and making seven tackles. Due to limited playing time, he transferred to Michigan State University. In his first season with the Spartans, he played in all 13 games but only managed to make 12 tackles. After initially entering the transfer portal in 2022, he opted to return to Michigan State for his final year, where he started 10 of 11 games and made 81 tackles, along with two sacks and two pass breakups. Despite having one year of eligibility left, he accepted an invitation to the East–West Shrine Bowl and declared for the NFL draft.
Ben VanSumeren Career
Early Career (2023)
Despite being projected as a potential pick in the 2023 NFL draft, VanSumeren went undrafted. He was subsequently signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent, receiving a contract that included $130,000 guaranteed. He was waived on August 29, 2023, and later re-signed to the practice squad. On November 5, 2023, he was called up from the practice squad for three consecutive weeks, with his first game being against the Dallas Cowboys. Following this stretch, he was signed to the active roster on November 30, 2023. In a game on December 25, 2023, VanSumeren recorded six tackles while playing 36 defensive snaps in a victory over the New York Giants.
Breakthrough (2024)
In his second season with the Eagles, VanSumeren transitioned back to his original college position of fullback. He played in 11 games and started one game during the 2024 season. On November 29, 2024, he suffered a season-ending knee injury during practice. Despite this setback, he and the Eagles achieved significant success, culminating in a Super Bowl victory at the conclusion of the season. During this season, he played 22 snaps on offense and 213 special teams snaps, recording three special teams tackles and one reception for zero yards.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ben VanSumeren’s signature achievement thus far is being part of the Super Bowl champion team in 2024. His journey from college football to the NFL, along with his ability to adapt to different positions, highlights his versatility and determination.
Ben VanSumeren Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Ben VanSumeren has received recognition for his performance, including being part of a Super Bowl championship team.
Ben VanSumeren Awards Won
Ben VanSumeren is a Super Bowl champion, having achieved this honor with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024.