Henry Ruggs III, once a rising star in the National Football League (NFL), had a promising future ahead. Known for his blistering speed and athleticism, Ruggs was on track to becoming a top-tier wide receiver. However, a tragic incident in 2021 altered the course of his career forever. In this article, we explore Henry Ruggs’ net worth, his early life, achievements, and the incident that ultimately ended his NFL career.
Who Is Henry Ruggs?
Born on January 24, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama, Henry James Ruggs III grew up in a sports-driven environment. Although he didn’t play football until high school, he quickly rose to prominence. As a student at Robert E. Lee High School, Ruggs showcased his talent in football, basketball, and track. His agility, coordination, and speed earned him the attention of several Division I college football programs.
Henry Ruggs’ College Career at Alabama
Ruggs committed to the University of Alabama, one of the most prestigious football schools in the nation. From 2017 to 2019, he played under head coach Nick Saban. Throughout his three-year college career, Ruggs caught 98 passes for 1,716 yards and scored 24 touchdowns. Notably, he became known for his ability to create explosive plays. His 4.27-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine in 2020 solidified his reputation as one of the fastest players in college football history.
Transition to the NFL: First-Round Pick
In the 2020 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Henry Ruggs as the 12th overall pick, making him the first wide receiver chosen that year. This marked a major milestone in his career. Ruggs signed a four-year contract worth $16.67 million, which included a $9.6 million signing bonus. Expectations were high, and he delivered moments of brilliance on the field.
During his rookie season in 2020, Ruggs appeared in 13 games, catching 26 passes for 452 yards and two touchdowns. By 2021, he had already improved his stats, securing 24 receptions for 469 yards and two more touchdowns in just seven games. Clearly, Ruggs was building momentum and emerging as a key player for the Raiders.
Legal Troubles and Career Downfall
Despite his success on the field, Ruggs’ off-field actions had dire consequences. On November 2, 2021, Ruggs was involved in a tragic car crash in Las Vegas. Driving at 156 mph while intoxicated, he collided with another vehicle, resulting in the death of 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog. His blood alcohol level was 0.161 — more than twice the legal limit.
Following the incident, the Las Vegas Raiders swiftly released Ruggs from the team. Authorities charged him with DUI resulting in death and reckless driving. In August 2023, a Nevada judge sentenced Ruggs to serve between three and ten years in state prison. This event abruptly ended what could have been a long and lucrative NFL career.
Henry Ruggs Net Worth Before and After
Before the 2021 incident, Henry Ruggs net worth was estimated at $4 million. This figure included his rookie contract earnings, signing bonus, and various endorsement deals. However, after his release from the NFL and his sentencing, his income and net worth dropped significantly.
With the cancellation of his contract and termination of endorsement deals, Ruggs’ financial future took a massive hit. As of 2025, his net worth remains stagnant or has possibly declined, with no active sources of income due to incarceration. His ability to rebuild wealth will largely depend on future opportunities after serving his sentence.
Ruggs’ Achievements and Legacy
Despite his legal issues, Ruggs’ athletic achievements remain significant. He was part of Alabama’s 2017 National Championship team and impressed with his speed and playmaking ability at both the collegiate and NFL levels. His journey from late football recruit to first-round draft pick inspired many, though his story now serves as a cautionary tale about making responsible decisions as a public figure.
Personal Life and Public Image
Before the accident, Ruggs kept a private life, maintaining a long-term relationship and welcoming a child in 2020. He expressed a desire for a stable family. However, the events of November 2021 overshadowed this positive image.
Since his incarceration, Ruggs has expressed remorse, apologizing to the victim’s family and acknowledging his actions’ consequences. His case highlights how off-field decisions can be as impactful as on-field performance.
Conclusion
Henry Ruggs’ net worth, once valued at around $4 million, reflects both the heights of his early success and the depth of his fall from grace. He had the talent, contract, and opportunity to become one of the NFL’s elite receivers. However, his choices off the field changed his life forever. His story highlights the fragile nature of fame, the power of personal responsibility, and the long-lasting consequences of one night’s mistake.