Michael White Bio
Michael White is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Carolina Panthers in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on March 25, 1995, in Pembroke Pines, Florida. His college football career began at the University of South Florida, but he gained substantial recognition during his time with Western Kentucky University. White was drafted in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Throughout his career, he has played for several teams including the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Buffalo Bills, often stepping into prominent roles due to injuries to other quarterbacks. As of 2024, he is focused on continuing to develop his skills and contribute to his current team.
Early Life and Background
Michael White attended NSU University School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He did not become a starter at quarterback until his senior season, during which he passed for 2,201 yards, 22 touchdowns, and only two interceptions, leading his team to victory in the 3A state championship. His performance earned him the title of Class 3A Florida Player of the Year. White committed to the University of South Florida (USF) to play college football. In addition to football, he was also a highly regarded baseball pitcher, achieving a 9–2 win-loss record with a 0.43 earned run average and receiving All-Broward County honors as a junior.
Path to American Football
White started his college football career at the University of South Florida, where he began five games as a true freshman in 2013. However, he struggled, completing only 93 of 175 passes for 1,083 yards, three touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He was named the starting quarterback before his sophomore season in 2014, completing 122 of 242 passes for 1,639 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions over ten starts. In 2015, White transferred to Western Kentucky University after USF changed its offensive strategy. He missed the entire 2015 season due to NCAA transfer rules but was named the starting quarterback for the 2016 season. White started all 14 games that year, completing 280 of 416 passes for 4,363 yards, 37 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, showcasing his impressive skills.
Michael White Career
Early Career (2018)
Michael White was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, being the eighth quarterback drafted that year. He signed a four-year contract with the Cowboys but spent the season as the third-string quarterback. In 2019, he competed for the backup role behind Dak Prescott but was waived at the end of the preseason. After his time with the Cowboys, White joined the New York Jets practice squad in September 2019.
Breakthrough (2021-2022)
White’s breakthrough came during the 2021 season when he made his regular season debut in relief of injured starter Zach Wilson. He led the Jets to a touchdown on his first drive and finished the game with 202 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. His first career start came against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 8, where he completed 37 of 45 passes for 405 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, earning him the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award. In the 2022 season, White was named the starter after Wilson was benched, throwing for 315 yards and three touchdowns in a win against the Chicago Bears.
Notable Works and Milestones
Michael White’s signature achievement includes his remarkable performance against the Cincinnati Bengals, where he became the first Jets quarterback to throw for over 400 yards in his first career start since Cam Newton. He has also been recognized for his resilience, playing through injuries during critical moments of his career.
Michael White Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Michael White has received several nominations and accolades, including being named the C–USA Newcomer of the Year in 2016 and a Second-team All-C–USA in 2017.
Michael White Awards Won
Michael White has won notable awards during his college career, including C–USA Newcomer of the Year and Second-team All-C–USA, reflecting his impact on the field.
Michael White Family
Michael White is married to Mallory White. The couple has two children together, a son and a daughter, adding joy to their family life.
Personal Life
Michael White maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on his family and career. He continues to work on his skills as a quarterback while balancing his responsibilities as a husband and father.
