Deatrich Wise Jr., champion of Super Bowl LIII, exemplifies the ideals of a gentleman and student. He was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, spent some of his childhood in Suffolk, Virginia, and now resides in Carrollton, Texas.
The 28-year-old defensive end was led toward a specific path from a young age on, and his efforts have paid off with a spot on the Patriots’ roster.
While attending Hebron High School, he excelled at the top levels of both football and track and field. All of Deatrich Jr.’s contemporaries hold a special place in their hearts for the charismatic leader.
During his time at Hebron High School, he made quite an impression, becoming one of the few athletes in north Texas to obtain a dual athletic scholarship to the University of Arkansas for football and shot put, and gracefully winning the title of Homecoming King his senior year.
Deatrich Jr. and his teammates made the decision after his first year of college in 2012 that he would prioritize football and schoolwork.
As a senior, he captained the Razorbacks and led the team in tackles (49), tied for third on the team (with 5.5), and ranked second (with 3.5 sacks).
When did Deatrich Wise Jr. get drafted?
During the 2017 National Football League Draft, the New England Patriots drafted Deatrich Wise Jr. in the fourth round (131st overall). New England Patriots signed Wise to a four-year, $2.97 million contract on May 18, 2017, with a signing bonus of $575,883.