Henry Ruggs Net Worth

Henry Ruggs III is a former professional American football wide receiver who gained widespread attention for his blazing speed and impressive athleticism. Drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders, Ruggs was seen as a promising talent. However, his rising career took a tragic turn due to legal troubles. Despite the controversies, many continue to search for information about his earnings, lifestyle, and overall net worth.

Early Life and Background

Born on January 24, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama, Henry Ruggs showed early signs of athletic excellence. During his high school years at Robert E. Lee High School, he participated in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and track. His speed became a standout attribute, leading to his recognition as one of the top high school football players in the state.

He continued his athletic journey at the University of Alabama, where he played under the renowned coach Nick Saban. Ruggs was part of the Crimson Tide’s explosive offense and became known for his deep-threat ability, thanks to his sub-4.3 40-yard dash speed.

Rise to NFL Stardom

Ruggs entered the NFL as the 12th overall pick in the 2020 Draft. The Las Vegas Raiders selected him as the first wide receiver in that class, which included notable names like Jerry Jeudy and CeeDee Lamb. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $16.67 million, fully guaranteed, including a signing bonus of around $9.6 million.

As a Raider, Ruggs had a promising start, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and deliver explosive plays. Although his rookie season had moderate stats, he improved in his second year, building chemistry with quarterback Derek Carr and becoming a more reliable target.

Legal Issues and Career Downfall

In November 2021, Ruggs was involved in a tragic car accident that led to the death of a 23-year-old woman and her dog. Authorities reported that Ruggs was driving at speeds exceeding 150 mph and had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) twice the legal limit. He was charged with DUI resulting in death and reckless driving, which led to his immediate release from the Raiders.

In 2023, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve 3 to 10 years in prison. This incident abruptly halted what could have been a long and successful NFL career, significantly impacting his income and public image.

Contracts and Career Earnings

Before his legal troubles, Ruggs earned most of his wealth through his NFL contract and signing bonus. His rookie contract alone was valued at over $16 million, fully guaranteed over four years. At the time of his release, he had received a significant portion of this amount.

Although exact figures vary, it’s estimated that he had earned between $10 million to $11 million by the time of his arrest. Additionally, he had endorsement deals in the early stages of his NFL career, but those were terminated following the incident.

Estimated Net Worth

As of 2025, Henry Ruggs’ estimated net worth is between $4 million to $6 million. This estimation considers his NFL earnings before legal fees, taxes, and any settlements related to the accident. His financial standing took a significant hit due to legal expenses and the loss of income from what was once a promising football career.

Any potential future earnings are uncertain due to his incarceration and the slim possibility of returning to professional sports.

Personal Life

Before the incident, Henry Ruggs led a relatively low-profile personal life. He was in a long-term relationship with Rudy Washington, with whom he shares a daughter. Ruggs often credited his family, especially his late best friend Roderic Scott, as key motivators in his life. Scott tragically passed away in a car accident during high school, and Ruggs often honored his memory with a special salute after every touchdown.

Since the accident, Ruggs has largely remained out of the public eye, with the focus shifting toward legal proceedings and his personal accountability.

Assets and Lifestyle

Before his arrest, Ruggs was known to live a luxurious lifestyle, consistent with many NFL players. He owned high-end vehicles and resided in a well-furnished home in Las Vegas. However, many of his assets may have been liquidated or affected due to legal costs and the criminal case outcome.

His once-promising endorsement potential and media presence also disappeared after the accident, removing additional income streams that would have contributed to a more lucrative net worth.

Conclusion

Henry Ruggs’ story is a sobering reminder of how quickly fortunes can change. From a first-round NFL draft pick with a multi-million dollar contract to a prison sentence, his journey underscores the consequences of personal decisions, regardless of fame or wealth.

While his net worth still reflects a fraction of his early NFL success, it is unlikely to grow in the near future due to his current legal status. Ruggs’ case has sparked broader conversations about responsibility, athlete conduct, and the fragility of professional careers in the spotlight.