Who Is Bret Bielema? Age, Biography and Wiki
Bret Bielema was born on January 13, 1970, making him 55 years old in 2025. A prominent figure in American football, Bielema has made a name for himself as both a player and a successful coach in college football. He is best known for his time at the University of Wisconsin, where he led the Badgers to multiple bowl games and secured the Big Ten Conference titles. With a rich history in football coaching across various universities, including Arkansas and Illinois, Bret continues to be a respected name in the sports community.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 13, 1970 |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | Silvis, Illinois, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Bret Bielema's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Bret Bielema stands tall at 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) and has a weight of approximately 300 pounds (136 kg). While specific body measurements are not widely reported, his robust stature complements his authoritative presence on the football field, both as a player and coach.
Bielema's first season at Arkansas resulted in an overall record of 3–9, including 0–8 in the SEC. Bielema inherited a roster depleted of talent and lacking in development under Coach Smith. Bielema's starting quarterback also suffered a throwing shoulder injury, which limited his ability the entire season.
It was the Razorbacks' worst SEC record since entering the conference in 1992 and their first winless in-conference season since 1942, when they were a member of the Southwest Conference.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Bret Bielema is happily married to Jenna Bielema. The couple tied the knot in June 2012, and they have been seen as a power couple in the sports community. Previously, Bret was linked to a few relationships during his early years, but his bond with Jenna has remained strong as they support each other through the challenges of his coaching career. The couple coordinates family life alongside Bret's demanding job in coaching, often sharing glimpses of their personal life on social media.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Bret Bielema's estimated net worth is around $12 million. His salary as the head football coach at the University of Illinois is reported to be $4 million annually, placing him among the well-compensated coaches in college football. Aside from coaching, Bret has also made money through various endorsements, speaking engagements, and football clinics.
On December 19, 2020, Bielema was announced as the next head coach at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, succeeding Lovie Smith.
The school said Bielema would receive a six-year contract that paid $4.2 million the first year, with annual raises, based on performance and fulfilling media and other promotional obligations for the program throughout the contract. The salary makes him the ninth-highest paid head coach among the fourteen members of the Big Ten Conference.
Career, Business and Investments
Bret Bielema’s career began as a player at the University of Iowa before transitioning seamlessly into coaching. His head coaching career has included significant positions at the University of Wisconsin, Arkansas, and the University of Illinois. In addition to coaching, Bret has ventured into sports commentary and has worked as a consultant to help develop future coaching talents in the industry. His insights and strategies during media appearances and coaching seminars have further enhanced his professional brand.
Bret Arnold Bielema (born January 13, 1970) is an American football coach. He is the head football coach at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a position he has held since the 2021 season.
Bielema served as the head football coach at the University of Wisconsin–Madison from 2006 to 2012, achieving a 68–24 record and taking them to three straight Rose Bowl Games, although they lost each time. He was the head football coach at University of Arkansas from 2013 to 2017, tallying a mark of 29–34.
Bielema was an assistant coach in the National Football League (NFL) for three seasons, in 2018 and 2019 with the New England Patriots and in 2020 with the New York Giants.
Social Network
Bret Bielema is active on several social media platforms, where he engages with fans and shares updates about his life and career. You can find him on:
- Twitter: @BretBielema
- Instagram: @bretbielema
Bielema attended Prophetstown High School in Prophetstown, Illinois. He played tight end and linebacker in high school. Bielema walked on as a defensive lineman at the University of Iowa under coach Hayden Fry, playing from 1989 to 1992. Bielema lettered four years, earned a scholarship and served as team captain his senior season.
Bielema was part of the 1990 Iowa team that won a share of the Big Ten title.
Education
Bret Bielema holds a degree from the University of Iowa, where he studied Physical Education. His academic background has been instrumental in shaping his coaching methods and understanding of sports dynamics. Throughout his career, he has also participated in various coaching clinics to keep himself updated with the latest coaching techniques and strategies.
Bielema was named a finalist for the 2010 Bear Bryant Award which is given to college football's Coach of the Year. The other finalists were Chris Ault of Nevada, Gene Chizik of Auburn, Mark Dantonio of Michigan State, Jim Harbaugh of Stanford, Chip Kelly of Oregon, Gary Patterson of TCU, Bobby Petrino of Arkansas, and Mike Sherman of Texas A&M.
