Tyrone Wheatley Jr. Bio
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. is an American professional football offensive tackle. Born on February 4, 1997, in Buffalo, New York, he played college football for the Michigan Wolverines and the Stony Brook Seawolves. After going undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft, he began his professional career with the Chicago Bears in 2021 before moving on to several teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders and Cleveland Browns. Notably, he is the son of Tyrone Wheatley, a former NFL player and coach.
Early Life and Background
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. attended Canisius High School in Buffalo, New York, where he played tight end and defensive end. He was recognized as The Buffalo News’ player of the year and was listed as a four-star prospect by Rivals.com, ranking him as the 13th best tight end prospect in the nation and the top-ranked player in New York state. Wheatley also received offers from prestigious programs such as Alabama, Florida, UCLA, and USC but ultimately committed to the University of Michigan, his father’s alma mater, on February 4, 2015.
Path to American Football
Wheatley played for the Michigan Wolverines, where he missed his entire true freshman season due to a foot injury. He made his collegiate debut against Illinois on October 22, 2016, scoring his first touchdown. During his sophomore season, he made his first start against Florida and recorded three receptions for 26 yards. After suffering a metatarsal fracture in March 2018, Wheatley announced his departure from Michigan just before the start of training camp. He subsequently transferred to Stony Brook University, where he made his first start at tight end on September 22, 2018, and recorded six receptions for 36 yards during the season.
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. Career
Early Career (2021-2022)
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. signed with the Chicago Bears on June 17, 2021. Although he was waived during final roster cuts, he was re-signed to the practice squad. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Bears on January 11, 2022, but was waived on May 6, 2022. Wheatley then signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on May 15, 2022, but was waived by the team on August 16, 2022.
Breakthrough (2022-2023)
On September 20, 2022, Wheatley signed with the practice squad of the Cleveland Browns and later signed a reserve/future contract on January 9, 2023. He was traded to the New England Patriots on August 27, 2023, in exchange for Pierre Strong Jr. Wheatley played in the first two games of the season on special teams but was placed on injured reserve on October 14, 2023, due to a knee injury. His 21-day window to return from IR was opened on December 13, but he was not activated before the season’s end.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Tyrone Wheatley Jr. has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, transitioning from tight end to offensive tackle. His journey through various teams showcases his determination to succeed in the NFL.
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Tyrone Wheatley Jr. has yet to receive any notable award nominations.
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. Awards Won
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. has not won any awards during his professional football career.
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. Family
Tyrone Wheatley Jr. is the son of Tyrone Wheatley Sr., a former NFL player and coach. Wheatley Sr. played as a running back for the Michigan Wolverines and was a first-round draft pick in the NFL. He is currently the head coach at Wayne State University.
Personal Life
Details about Tyrone Wheatley Jr.’s personal life are limited, but he is known to have a close relationship with his father, who has been a significant influence in his football career.