Cody Whitehair Bio
Cody Michael Whitehair is an American professional football guard born on July 11, 1992, in Kearney, Nebraska. He has established himself as a reliable player in the National Football League after being drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. A former standout at Kansas State University, Whitehair became the first Bears center to play in the Pro Bowl since Olin Kreutz and has garnered significant recognition for his performance on the field, including several accolades throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
Cody Whitehair grew up in Abilene, Kansas, where he attended Abilene High School. During his time there, he excelled as a two-way lineman for the Cowboys football varsity team. In his senior year, he was recognized for his outstanding performance, earning a spot on PrepStar magazine’s All-Midlands Region team. He recorded an impressive 140 pancake blocks and 81 total tackles, including 15 sacks, helping his team finish with a 10-1 record before losing in the state playoffs. Following high school, Whitehair continued his education and football career at Kansas State University. After redshirting his first year in 2011, he became a starter at guard in 2012 and 2013. In 2014, he transitioned to offensive tackle, where he continued to start through his junior and senior years.
Path to American Football
Whitehair’s journey to professional football began with his selection in the 2016 NFL Draft. He was picked in the second round, 56th overall, by the Chicago Bears. His rookie season was marked by an unexpected opportunity when a season-ending injury to Hroniss Grasu allowed him to start at left guard during the preseason. He quickly adapted to the center position after the Bears signed veteran guard Josh Sitton, ultimately starting all 16 games at center and earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team.
Cody Whitehair Career
Early Career (2016-2018)
Cody Whitehair’s professional career began with the Chicago Bears, where he made an immediate impact. In 2018, he played every offensive snap of the season and was named to the Pro Bowl, becoming the first Bears center to achieve this honor since Olin Kreutz. His consistent performance on the field solidified his reputation as a dependable player.
Breakthrough (2019-2023)
In 2019, Whitehair transitioned back to left guard, allowing James Daniels to take over the center position. On September 1, 2019, he signed a five-year contract extension worth $52.5 million, with $27.5 million guaranteed. However, his career faced challenges, including a knee injury in Week 4 of the 2022 season, which placed him on injured reserve. Despite these setbacks, Whitehair remained a key player for the Bears until his release on February 15, 2024.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Cody Whitehair has been recognized for his achievements, including being named to the Pro Bowl in 2018 and earning spots on the PFWA All-Rookie Team and the All-Big 12 teams during his college career.
Cody Whitehair Award Nominations
Cody Whitehair has received several nominations and accolades throughout his career, highlighting his skills and contributions to the sport.
Cody Whitehair Awards Won
Whitehair’s notable awards include a Pro Bowl selection in 2018 and recognition as a member of the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2016. He also received First-team All-Big 12 honors in 2015 and was named Second-team All-Big 12 in 2013 and 2014.
Cody Whitehair Family
Information regarding Cody Whitehair’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Cody Whitehair’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not disclosed.
