Ted Karras Bio
Theodore John Karras III is an American professional football center for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Illinois Fighting Illini, where he excelled as a starter and team captain. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2016, Karras achieved significant success, contributing to two Super Bowl victories. Following a season with the Miami Dolphins, he returned to the Patriots before signing with the Bengals, where he has continued to establish himself as a key player and leader on the field.
Early Life and Background
Theodore John Karras III was born on March 15, 1993, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents Ted Karras Jr. and Jennifer Karras. Raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Karras attended Cathedral High School, where he played as an offensive lineman for the Fighting Irish Leprechauns. His high school career was marked by significant achievements, including helping his team win state championships in 2008 and 2010. Karras earned All-State honors during the 2009 and 2010 seasons and was recognized as a top recruiting prospect.
Karras graduated from Cathedral High School in 2011 and received multiple collegiate football offers. He chose to attend the University of Illinois, where he would further develop his skills as a football player.
Path to American Football
Karras committed to the University of Illinois, where he began his collegiate football career after redshirting in 2011. He made his first start in 2012 as a right guard and quickly became a key player for the Fighting Illini. Over his college career, Karras started in 43 games and was recognized for his performance with multiple Academic All-Big Ten selections.
His collegiate success paved the way for his entry into the NFL, where he was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Karras’s early career was marked by his adaptability and resilience, as he transitioned from college football to the professional level.
Ted Karras Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Karras was selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He made the Patriots’ 53-man roster and was thrust into action as a starting right guard during the season opener against the Arizona Cardinals. Despite initially serving in a reserve role, Karras contributed to the team’s success, helping them finish with a 14-2 record and earn a playoff berth.
On February 5, 2017, Karras was part of the Patriots team that won Super Bowl LI, defeating the Atlanta Falcons in a historic overtime game. He continued to develop his skills over the next few seasons, starting in various games and contributing to the team’s offensive line.
Breakthrough (2020–Present)
After a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins in 2020, where he started all 16 games at center, Karras returned to the New England Patriots in 2021. He was named the starting left guard during the season and played a crucial role in the team’s offensive line.
In March 2022, Karras signed a three-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals worth $18 million. He quickly established himself as the starting center and was named a team captain. Karras continued to excel in his role, starting all games during the 2022 season and maintaining that performance into the 2023 season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Karras is a two-time Super Bowl champion, having won titles with the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI and Super Bowl LIII. His consistent performance and leadership on the field have made him a vital asset to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Ted Karras Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Ted Karras has received recognition for his contributions to the sport, including being a two-time Super Bowl champion.
Ted Karras Awards Won
Ted Karras has achieved significant milestones in his career, including two Super Bowl victories with the New England Patriots.
Ted Karras Family
Ted Karras comes from a family with a rich history in football. His grandfather, Ted Karras Sr., and granduncles, Lou Karras and Alex Karras, all played in the NFL. His father, Ted Karras Jr., also had a brief career in professional football.
Personal Life
Karras is a third-generation NFL player and has a strong connection to the sport through his family. He attended the same school as several notable NFL players, further emphasizing his family’s legacy in football. Karras is also known for his interest in pop culture, particularly as a fan and trivia expert of the television series The Office.
