Henry Ruggs’ net worth in 2025 is estimated at around $4 million, marking a staggering fall from the multi-million-dollar fortune he once stood to earn as a first-round NFL Draft pick. The former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver had signed a $16.67 million contract, which included guaranteed money and a $10 million signing bonus, before his career was abruptly destroyed by a tragic DUI crash in November 2021.
Once celebrated for his blazing 4.27-second 40-yard dash and destined for stardom, Ruggs’ life took a devastating turn as one reckless decision cost him his career, freedom, and future earnings. Now serving 3–10 years in Nevada State Prison, he watches from behind bars as his former teammates continue chasing championships—a haunting reminder of how quickly fame and fortune can disappear.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Henry James Ruggs III |
| Known As | Henry Ruggs III |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1999 |
| Age (2025) | 26 Years |
| Birthplace | Montgomery, Alabama, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former American Football Player (Wide Receiver) |
| College | University of Alabama |
| High School | Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School |
| NFL Draft Year | 2020 |
| NFL Team | Las Vegas Raiders |
| Drafted By | Las Vegas Raiders (1st Round, 12th Overall Pick) |
| Playing Position | Wide Receiver |
| Jersey Number | #11 (Raiders) |
| Contract Value | $16.67 Million (4 Years, Fully Guaranteed) |
| Signing Bonus | $10.02 Million |
Henry James Ruggs III was born in Montgomery, Alabama. His athleticism showed early through multiple sports. By high school, scouts recognized his extraordinary talent. The University of Alabama recruited him heavily and won.
At Alabama, Ruggs became a national champion. He played alongside future NFL stars brilliantly. Nick Saban’s coaching shaped his professional development. The 2020 NFL Draft made him a millionaire.
The Las Vegas Raiders selected him twelfth overall. His speed and potential justified the pick. Everything pointed toward NFL stardom and wealth. Then November 2, 2021 arrived with devastating consequences.
What Is Henry Ruggs Net Worth and Salary?
Henry Ruggs’ net worth is currently estimated at around $4 million, reflecting a dramatic decline from his early NFL career peak. Before his 2021 DUI conviction that resulted in a fatal crash and ended his professional career, Ruggs had signed a four-year, $16.67 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, which included a $10 million signing bonus and an average annual salary of over $600,000. However, following the incident, the Raiders swiftly released him, voiding the remainder of his contract. Ruggs ultimately earned only about $4.73 million before termination. After accounting for federal and Nevada taxes, agent commissions, and mounting legal fees, his real take-home amount reportedly dropped to roughly $2.85 million.
The financial fallout continued as civil lawsuit settlements and other expenses further depleted his assets. What remains of Ruggs’ fortune comes mainly from careful management of his residual savings and modest investments. His family now oversees his Las Vegas property and helps maintain his limited financial stability. Once a promising wide receiver and rising star, Henry Ruggs’ wealth now stands as a reminder of how quickly professional success and financial security can unravel following personal and legal turmoil.
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Henry Ruggs Current Financial Breakdown
Today’s financial stability looks drastically different from 2020. Prison wages provide minimal income essentially. No endorsements or sponsorships exist anymore obviously. His investments generate small returns when managed properly.
The Henry Ruggs 2025 fortune consists mainly of:
- Residual savings from NFL career earnings
- Las Vegas residential property managed by family
- Minor investment returns and interest accumulation
- Possible trust fund arrangements for his daughter
His girlfriend Kiara Washington handles outside finances. She raises their daughter on limited resources. The family manages what wealth remains carefully. Financial security exists but nothing like before.
Compared to other 2020 first-round picks, it’s heartbreaking. CeeDee Lamb and Jerry Jeudy earn millions annually. Their careers flourish while Ruggs serves time. The wealth gap grows exponentially each season.
NFL Salary and Contracts
The Raiders bet heavily on Ruggs’ potential. They offered him a four-year deal worth millions. His Henry Ruggs Raiders contract included full guarantees. That’s rare for rookie wide receivers typically.
Henry Ruggs contract value broke down strategically:
- Total Contract: $16.67 million over four years
- Signing Bonus: $10.02 million paid immediately upfront
- Average Annual Salary: $4.16 million per season
- 2021 Base Salary: $607,000 before termination occurred
His elite speed justified the investment completely. The 4.27-second 40-yard dash was legendary. Scouts compared him to DeSean Jackson immediately. Derek Carr needed a deep-threat weapon desperately.
Had Ruggs completed his rookie contract successfully, career earnings would’ve skyrocketed exponentially afterward. Second contracts for productive receivers reach $80-100 million. His projected lifetime NFL earnings exceeded $150 million. One night erased that entire financial future.
The Contract Termination That Changed Everything
The Las Vegas Raiders moved swiftly after arrest. Within hours, they released Ruggs from contract. The “conduct detrimental to team” clause applied. They clawed back millions in guaranteed money.
Henry Ruggs career earnings before termination totaled $4.73 million. The signing bonus came upfront thankfully. His 2020 rookie salary was collected fully. Part of his 2021 base salary arrived. Then everything stopped abruptly and permanently.
After taxes, agent fees, and legal expenses, much less remained. Nevada and federal income taxes combined significantly. Agent fees typically consume 3% of earnings. Legal defense for DUI resulting in death costs exceeded $500,000 easily.
Early Life of Henry Ruggs
Born on January 24, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama, Henry Ruggs III grew up in a supportive and disciplined household with his parents, Natasha Ruggs and Henry Ruggs Jr., who strongly encouraged his athletic pursuits. At Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, Ruggs became a multi-sport standout, excelling in football, basketball, and track, where he broke school records in the 100-meter dash. His exceptional speed and competitive drive set him apart early, attracting attention from top college recruiters as early as his sophomore year.
By his senior season, Ruggs’ talent reached new heights he scored 20 touchdowns in just nine games, establishing himself as one of Alabama’s most explosive athletes. His remarkable 4.27-second 40-yard dash solidified his reputation as a top national prospect, earning scholarship offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Auburn, and Georgia. Ultimately choosing to play under Coach Nick Saban at the University of Alabama, Ruggs refined his skills as a wide receiver and set the stage for his future in the NFL, his early life serving as a testament to discipline, family support, and raw athletic brilliance.
The Speed That Built a Fortune
Ruggs’ 4.27-second 40-yard dash became his calling card. That elite velocity separated him from peers. Scouts recognized NFL-caliber talent immediately and clearly. His decision to attend Alabama proved transformational.
Playing for Nick Saban meant elite development. The Alabama Crimson Tide offered national championship opportunities. Ruggs joined an offense loaded with talent. His hometown roots made the decision easier.
The early life foundation seemed nearly perfect honestly. Strong family support provided stability and guidance. Academic and athletic excellence opened doors repeatedly. His path toward wealth appeared absolutely inevitable. Nobody predicted the tragic turn years later.
Henry Ruggs College Career
The University of Alabama football program mints millionaires. Ruggs arrived in 2017 ready to compete. He immediately contributed to championship-caliber teams. His speed transformed Alabama’s offensive capabilities dramatically.
Henry Ruggs Alabama football career highlights:
- 2017: Won College Football Playoff National Championship
- Career Stats: 98 receptions, 1,716 yards, 24 touchdowns
- Playing Style: Deep-threat specialist with breakaway speed
- Draft Stock: First-round projection by junior year
Playing alongside Tua Tagovailoa elevated his game. Jerry Jeudy and DeVonta Smith were teammates. The receiving corps was arguably college football’s best. Nick Saban’s system maximized Ruggs’ unique abilities.
His junior year sealed first-round draft status. NFL scouts loved his consistent production levels. The 2020 NFL Draft couldn’t come fast enough. Professional athlete wealth awaited just months away.
Alabama’s Impact on Future Earnings
Alabama prepared Ruggs financially and professionally both. The program teaches life skills beyond football. Players learn money management and investment strategies. That education proved valuable when millions arrived.
The Alabama Crimson Tide’s national exposure helped tremendously. Scouts watched every game closely and carefully. His performances against SEC defenses impressed evaluators. The college stats translated to NFL potential.
Ruggs declared for the 2020 NFL Draft confidently. Mock drafts projected him as top-20 pick. The Las Vegas Raiders ultimately selected him twelfth. His signing bonus exceeded $10 million immediately. College success had delivered generational wealth or so it seemed.
NFL Career Henry Ruggs
The 2020 NFL Draft changed Ruggs’ life forever. The Las Vegas Raiders called his name proudly. Jersey number 11 became his professional identity. Henry Ruggs NFL salary started flowing immediately afterward.
His rookie season showed flashes of brilliance. Injuries limited his games unfortunately and frustratingly. He finished with 26 receptions for 452 yards. Two touchdowns demonstrated his scoring ability clearly. The potential remained obvious to everyone watching.
By 2021, growth seemed inevitable and exciting. Chemistry with Derek Carr was improving weekly. Through seven games, he’d caught 24 passes. His 469 receiving yards projected toward 1,000-yard season. Two touchdowns kept defenders honest deep downfield.
The Career That Ended Too Soon
November 2, 2021 marked his final NFL game. Hours later, the fatal DUI crash occurred tragically. Tina Tintor and her dog died instantly. The Las Vegas Raiders released him immediately afterward.
Lost NFL income exceeded $12 million in guarantees. His career earnings stopped at $4.73 million total. Former teammates continued their professional journeys successfully. Ruggs’ playing days ended at just 22.
The NFL career cut short devastated multiple families. His potential will forever remain unfulfilled completely. What could’ve been haunts football fans still. The tragic downfall of an NFL star serves as stark reminder.
Henry Ruggs Family
Behind every athlete stands a supporting family. Natasha Ruggs and Henry Ruggs Jr. raised him. They instilled values and work ethic early. His parents attended every game proudly and lovingly.
Henry Ruggs family background includes strong bonds always. His younger brother Kevontae Ruggs played college football. East Mississippi Community College recruited him successfully too. Athletic talent clearly runs through the family.
Henry Ruggs girlfriend Kiara Washington remained loyal throughout. They’ve been together since high school days. She gave birth to their daughter in 2020. The couple faced tragedy together during trial.
Standing By Through Legal Troubles
Kiara Washington’s support never wavered publicly at all. She attended every court appearance faithfully and consistently. Henry Ruggs personal life became scrutinized intensely afterward. Their relationship endured unprecedented public pressure and judgment.
Raising their daughter primarily alone challenges her daily. Prison visits maintain father-daughter connections when possible. The family manages his Las Vegas property currently. Financial support from his remaining wealth helps.
His parents visit regularly despite the circumstances. The emotional toll affects everyone involved deeply. Kevontae’s football opportunities suffered from association unfortunately. Family loyalty remains strong despite everything that happened.
2021 Car Crash
November 2, 2021 changed multiple lives forever. Henry Ruggs DUI crash occurred at 3:39 AM. He was driving a Chevrolet Corvette recklessly. His blood alcohol level measured 0.161 double legal limit.
Speed estimates reached 156 mph before impact. Tina Tintor’s Toyota RAV4 never stood a chance. The collision caused immediate fiery explosion tragically. Both Tintor and her dog Max perished.
DUI resulting in death charges followed quickly. Reckless driving added to criminal counts substantially. The Henry Ruggs car accident 2021 became national news. His NFL career ended within hours officially.
Legal Consequences and Prison Sentence
Henry Ruggs conviction came through guilty plea eventually. In May 2023, he accepted responsibility formally. The Henry Ruggs prison sentence ranged 3-10 years. Nevada State Prison became his new home.
Financial impact of Henry Ruggs legal issues:
- Legal defense costs exceeded $500,000 minimum
- Civil lawsuit settlements with Tintor family
- Lost endorsement deals worth millions potentially
- Contract termination voided $12 million guaranteed money
The Henry Ruggs trial and arrest dominated sports media. Public backlash was swift and harsh understandably. His reputation suffered irreparable damage permanently and completely. Redemption seems nearly impossible given circumstances involved.
Henry Ruggs Nevada prison houses him currently today. He participates in rehabilitation programs when available. Earliest parole consideration comes in 2026 possibly. Maximum sentence extends until 2033 potentially otherwise.
Henry Ruggs’ Contract Was Worth Millions Before Termination
The Raiders contract represented generational wealth potentially altogether. Henry Ruggs signing bonus of $10.02 million arrived immediately. That guaranteed money couldn’t be taken back. His base salaries were different stories entirely.
Contract structure breakdown:
- Year 1 (2020): $660,000 base salary
- Year 2 (2021): $607,000 base salary (partial)
- Year 3 (2022): Would’ve been $1.39 million
- Year 4 (2023): Would’ve been $2.41 million
Had the contract completed normally and successfully, total earnings approached $17 million easily. Performance incentives could’ve added millions more. Pro Bowl selections and playoff bonuses awaited.
Instead, Henry Ruggs contract termination ended everything abruptly forever. The Raiders invoked conduct clauses immediately after arrest. Future guaranteed money vanished instantly and permanently gone. His earning potential died with Tina Tintor tragically.
What Other Players Earned Instead
Jerry Jeudy signed a similar rookie contract. He’s now earning second-contract money successfully. CeeDee Lamb recently signed a massive extension. Their careers flourished while Ruggs’ ended completely.
The wealth decline comparison is staggering and heartbreaking. Former teammates earn $20-30 million annually now. Ruggs collects nominal prison wages instead obviously. The financial gap grows exponentially each season.
Henry Ruggs lost fortune extends beyond immediate earnings. Brand partnerships would’ve generated substantial income. Youth camps and appearances pay handsomely typically. That entire revenue stream disappeared November 2021.
Conclusion
Henry Ruggs’ journey from a first-round NFL Draft pick to a convicted felon is a tragic story of wasted potential, lost fortune, and irreversible consequences. Once positioned to earn over $16 million through his Las Vegas Raiders contract and signing bonus, Ruggs’ wealth quickly dwindled to an estimated $4 million after legal fees, taxes, and the termination of his career.
His reckless DUI crash in 2021, which claimed the life of 23-year-old Tina Tintor, not only ended his time in the NFL but also shattered multiple families. Today, as he serves his prison sentence, Ruggs’ story stands as a sobering reminder that discipline, responsibility, and character matter far more than speed or fame—one moment of poor judgment can erase a lifetime of achievement and redefine a legacy forever.
FAQs
How much is Henry Ruggs worth right now?
Henry Ruggs net worth currently sits at $4 million. His wealth dropped dramatically after contract termination.
What happened to Henry Ruggs NFL money?
The Raiders voided his $16.67 million contract completely. Legal fees and settlements drained additional millions afterward.
Did Henry Ruggs lose all his money?
No, he retained approximately $4 million total. Most guaranteed money was clawed back though.
How much did Henry Ruggs make before prison?
He earned roughly $4.73 million before termination. After taxes and fees, he kept $2.85 million.
Is Henry Ruggs still rich in 2025?
He has $4 million remaining from earnings. That’s modest compared to active NFL players.
Willem Janssen is the admin of Celebrora, a blog dedicated to the world of celebrities. With a passion for entertainment and storytelling, he curates engaging content that brings readers closer to their favorite stars. Willem ensures Celebrora remains a trusted space for fresh updates, insights, and features about the lives of celebrities.