Who Is Reggie White? Age, Biography and Wiki
Reggie White, born on December 19, 1961, was a celebrated American football player whose legacy endures even years after his passing on December 26, 2004. Known as "The Minister of Defense," White was renowned for his powerful presence on the field as a defensive end. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers, becoming one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history.
Despite his untimely death, Reggie White’s life is celebrated in various sports circles, and his contributions to the game and society continue to resonate. In 2025, he would have been 63 years old had he still been alive.
Occupation | Football Players |
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Date of Birth | December 19, 1961 |
Age | 43 Years |
Birth Place | Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S. |
Horoscope | Sagittarius |
Country | U.S |
Date of death | 26 December, 2004 |
Died Place | Cornelius, North Carolina, U.S. |
Popularity
Reggie White's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Reggie White was known for his impressive physical stature during his playing days. He stood at an impressive height of 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm) and weighed around 300 pounds (136 kg). His muscular physique and remarkable agility made him a formidable opponent on the field, contributing to his success as a sack artist in the NFL.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Reggie White was married to his college sweetheart, Sara White, since 1985 until his passing in 2004. Together, they shared a deep bond and had two children. His family played a pivotal role in his life, providing support throughout his storied career. After his death, Sara has continued to honor his legacy through various charitable efforts and initiatives aimed at helping underprivileged youth.
He was raised by his mother until age eight when he was placed with his grandmother, Mildred Dodd. He played high school football at Howard High School under Coach Robert Pulliam, a former defensive lineman at Tennessee.
During his senior year with the Hustlin' Tigers, White recorded 140 tackles (88 solo) and 10 sacks, and received All-American honors. He was rated the number one recruit in Tennessee by the Knoxville News Sentinel.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Reggie White's estimated net worth was around $3 million. His earnings came from his NFL career, endorsements, and various business ventures. Known for his philanthropic spirit, much of his income also supported charitable causes, reflecting his dedication to giving back to the community.
When the USFL collapsed in 1985, White took a salary cut in Philadelphia. The Eagles signed him to a 4-year/$6 million contract (with a $400,000 signing bonus) after buying out the remaining three years on his Memphis contract. White was still considered an unproven entity, but his anonymity did not last long.
He joined the Eagles after the 1985 season had begun, missing the first few games. When he finally did start, he made ten tackles and two-and-a-half sacks in his first game. By season's end he had turned in 13 sacks in as many games, and he was named NFC Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Career, Business and Investments
Reggie White had a legendary football career, being a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a Pro Football Hall of Famer. Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1984, he later played for the Green Bay Packers, leading them to a Super Bowl victory in 1997.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, White was involved in several business endeavors, including real estate investments and various philanthropic efforts through the Reggie White Foundation, which focused on uplifting the community. His commitment extended beyond the football field, including significant contributions to social justice and youth mentorship.
The two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Super Bowl XXXI champion, 13-time Pro Bowl, and 13-time All-Pro selection holds second place all-time among NFL career sack leaders with 198. He was selected to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, and the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team.
During his professional career, White is credited with pioneering free agency in sports. Outside of football he was also known for his Christian ministry as an ordained evangelical minister, leading to his nickname, "the Minister of Defense". White is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Social Network
Though Reggie White is not on social media today, his legacy continues to thrive on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where fans honor his memory and share tributes. Various fan pages and memorials celebrate his life and achievements, ensuring that new generations learn about his impact on football and society.
Education
Reggie White attended the University of Tennessee, where he played college football and excelled as a defensive end. His time in college set the stage for his professional career, showcasing his talent and leadership. He graduated with a degree in psychology, reflecting his commitment to education even amidst his rising athletic career.
Reginald Howard White (December 19, 1961 – December 26, 2004) was an American professional football defensive end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons. White played college football for the Tennessee Volunteers, earning unanimous All-American honors.
After playing two seasons for the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League (USFL), he was selected in the first round of the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft, and then played for the Philadelphia Eagles, the Green Bay Packers and the Carolina Panthers, becoming one of the most awarded defensive players in NFL history.