Philip Wheeler Net Worth: How the Former NFL Linebacker Built His $6 Million Fortune
Philip Wheeler, the retired American NFL linebacker, has successfully accumulated a net worth of $6 million through his decade-long professional football career. The Georgia Tech alumnus played in the National Football League from 2008 to 2017, representing five different teams and earning substantial contracts along the way.
Wheeler’s financial success stems primarily from his NFL career earnings, which totaled approximately $19.5 million over ten seasons. His journey from a third-round draft pick to a multi-millionaire athlete demonstrates the lucrative nature of professional football and smart financial management throughout his career.
Early Life and College Career at Georgia Tech
Born on December 12, 1984, Philip Wheeler developed his football skills at Georgia Tech, where he played from 2003 to 2007. During his college years, Wheeler established himself as one of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s premier linebackers, showcasing the talent that would later translate to NFL success.
Wheeler’s college statistics were impressive, recording 248 total tackles and 18.5 sacks over his final three seasons. His senior year performance earned him First-team All-ACC honors, which significantly boosted his draft stock and caught the attention of NFL scouts.
The linebacker started 36 games over his final three seasons at Georgia Tech, demonstrating both durability and consistency. His college achievements laid the foundation for his professional career and the substantial earnings that would follow.
NFL Draft and Indianapolis Colts Beginning
The Indianapolis Colts selected Philip Wheeler in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft, making him the 93rd overall pick. This selection came with a four-year rookie contract worth $2.349 million, including a $644,000 signing bonus that provided Wheeler with his first significant professional earnings.
Wheeler’s early years with the Colts were characterized by gradual development and learning the professional game. He spent four seasons in Indianapolis from 2008 to 2011, working his way up from a backup role to becoming a more prominent contributor to the team’s defense.
During his time with the Colts, Wheeler earned approximately $2.994 million, which exceeded his original contract value by 27.5%. This overperformance demonstrated his value to the organization and set the stage for more lucrative opportunities in his career.
Career Peak and Major Contracts
Wheeler’s breakthrough season came in 2012 with the Oakland Raiders, where he signed a one-year contract worth $700,000. His exceptional performance that season, including a career-high 109 tackles, significantly increased his market value and attracted attention from multiple NFL teams.
The standout season with Oakland led to Wheeler’s most lucrative contract opportunity. In 2013, the Miami Dolphins signed him to a five-year deal worth $26 million, representing the pinnacle of his earning potential as an NFL player.
Key Contract Details: The Miami contract included $13 million in guaranteed money and a $7 million signing bonus, providing Wheeler with immediate financial security. This deal represented the largest financial commitment of his career and contributed significantly to his overall net worth accumulation.
Team Transitions and Career Earnings
Throughout his NFL career, Wheeler played for five different teams, demonstrating his adaptability and value across various defensive systems. After his stint with Miami, he had shorter contracts with the San Francisco 49ers, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals.
Wheeler’s total career earnings reached $19,541,646, with an average annual salary of $2,171,294 over his ten-year career. His ability to secure multiple contracts despite changing teams frequently showcased his professional value and contributed to his wealth accumulation.
The linebacker’s financial management during these team transitions appears to have been effective, as he maintained his earning potential throughout various contract negotiations. His career earnings significantly exceeded the typical NFL player’s lifetime earnings, placing him in a financially advantageous position.
Career Statistics and Professional Legacy
Over his ten-year NFL career, Wheeler accumulated impressive statistics that justified his substantial contracts. He recorded 513 total tackles, 5.5 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles while playing for the Colts, Raiders, Dolphins, 49ers, Falcons, and Cardinals.
Wheeler’s playing style was characterized by versatility and athleticism, standing 6’2″ and weighing 245 pounds. His ability to play multiple linebacker positions and contribute on special teams made him valuable to coaching staffs throughout his career.
While Wheeler never achieved Pro Bowl status, his consistency and reliability made him a sought-after player in free agency. His decade-long career in a physically demanding sport speaks to his durability and professional approach to the game.
Personal Life and Current Ventures
Philip Wheeler married Ashley Roberts in May 2017, following their engagement in November 2016. The couple has two sons, born in 2014 and 2018, and Wheeler has embraced his role as a family man following his retirement from professional football.
Ashley Wheeler has gained recognition through her appearance on the Netflix reality series “W.A.G.s… to Riches,” which premiered in January 2025. This exposure has potentially created additional income opportunities for the Wheeler family beyond Philip’s NFL earnings.
Since retiring from the NFL in 2017, Wheeler has likely focused on managing his accumulated wealth and exploring post-football business ventures. Many former NFL players invest in real estate, business partnerships, or other income-generating activities to maintain their financial stability.
Wheeler’s $6 million net worth represents successful financial planning throughout his playing career and beyond. His ability to accumulate and preserve wealth demonstrates the importance of smart financial decisions for professional athletes with limited earning windows.
