Philip Wheeler, a former NFL linebacker, made a lasting mark in professional football through his exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and astute financial decisions. While not a household name like some of his peers, his career has been both impactful and lucrative. According to various estimations, Philip Wheeler net worth is between $4 million and $6 million as of 2025.
This figure includes earnings from his playing days, off-field ventures, and personal investments, particularly in real estate. Wheeler career showcases how discipline and wise choices can lead to lasting financial success even after retiring from professional sports.
What is Philip Wheeler Net Worth?
As of 2025, Philip Wheeler has an estimated net worth of between $4 million and $6 million. This wealth stems from multiple sources, including NFL salaries, endorsement deals, coaching gigs, and real estate investments.
He might not have earned the extravagant contracts seen in today’s top NFL stars, but his steady income over a decade-long career added up to a respectable fortune.
His lifestyle choices also contribute to preserving his net worth. Unlike some athletes who overspend, Wheeler is known for maintaining a balanced, sustainable lifestyle, making him a strong example of post-career financial management.
College Career: The Foundation of Philip Wheeler Net Worth
Philip Wheeler journey to the NFL began at Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), where he played college football for the Yellow Jackets. He joined the team as a determined and raw talent but quickly evolved into one of the most aggressive and effective linebackers in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Wheeler was known for his high football IQ, ability to read plays, and physical strength. He led the team in tackles during his junior and senior seasons, earning him All-ACC honours and national recognition.
His explosive playing style and leadership on the field made him a standout prospect for NFL scouts, setting the stage for his future professional success. Georgia Tech not only shaped him as a football player but also helped him grow in discipline and strategy, which later became essential in his NFL journey and post-career life.
Let’s Take a Look at Philip Wheeler Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Philip Gregory Wheeler |
| Date of Birth | December 12, 1984 |
| Age | 40 years (as of 2025) |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 240 lbs |
| Partner | Ashley Nicole Roberts |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Columbus, Georgia, USA |
| Father | Greg Wheeler |
| Mother | Not Publicly Disclosed |
NFL Journey and the Rise of Philip Wheeler Net Worth
After an impressive college career at Georgia Tech, Philip Wheeler was selected in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. This marked the beginning of his professional football journey. Wheeler quickly adapted to the speed and intensity of the NFL, earning a reputation for his hard-hitting tackles and ability to disrupt offensive plays.
Throughout his nearly 10-year career, he played for several teams, consistently bringing his signature aggression and reliability to the field. Though not a flashy superstar, he earned the respect of teammates and coaches for his work ethic and versatility. Wheeler ability to adapt to various defensive schemes enabled him to remain valuable across teams and seasons.
Teams Philip Wheeler Played For
- Indianapolis Colts (2008–2011): Started his NFL career and built his reputation as a strong linebacker.
- Oakland Raiders (2012): Had one of his best seasons, recording career-high tackles and becoming a team leader.
- Miami Dolphins (2013–2015): Signed a $26 million deal; contributed significantly on defence despite injuries.
- Atlanta Falcons (2015–2016): Continued his role as a reliable backup and situational defender.
- San Francisco 49ers (2016): Ended his professional career with a brief stint before retirement.
Career Earnings Behind Philip Wheeler Net Worth
Wheeler total career earnings are estimated to be around $11 million to $12 million. His most lucrative contract was with the Miami Dolphins, where he signed a five-year, $26 million deal in 2013, with $13 million guaranteed. Although he didn’t complete all five years of that contract, the guaranteed portion significantly boosted his finances.
Here is a rough breakdown of his earnings over the years:
- Rookie contract with Colts (2008–2011): Approx. $3.8 million
- Raiders contract (2012): $700,000 (one-year deal)
- Dolphins contract (2013–2015): $13 million guaranteed
- Falcons contract (2015–2016): ~$2.4 million
- Short stints with 49ers and other teams: ~$1 million
These figures exclude taxes, agent fees, and expenses, but they give a realistic picture of how Wheeler built his wealth.
Personal Life
Philip Wheeler lives a grounded and thoughtful life away from the spotlight. Unlike many athletes who stay in the media after retirement, Wheeler prefers a quiet existence centred around family and long-term planning. He once attracted media attention due to his relationship with Ashley Nicole Wheeler, a public figure and model.
The two have a son, and Wheeler is known to be a devoted father. His decision to step away from celebrity culture shows his values of stability, privacy, and personal integrity.
Family and Relationships
Wheeler shares a child with Ashley Nicole Wheeler and has embraced fatherhood as one of the most critical roles in his life. While their relationship eventually became private, he remains an involved and caring parent.
He avoids unnecessary attention and has always protected his family’s privacy from the media. His home life is rooted in Atlanta, where he creates a safe, nurturing environment for his son.
Lifestyle and Values
Post-retirement, Wheeler has opted for a modest lifestyle that reflects maturity and careful planning. He avoids extravagant purchases and flashy appearances, preferring a more balanced and comfortable existence. His time is spent between parenting, managing real estate, and occasionally coaching young athletes.
His values centre on discipline, long-term thinking, and staying grounded, qualities that not only sustained his NFL career but also shape his post-football success.
Playing Style and Impact
Wheeler was known for his aggressive, hard-hitting playing style. He played primarily as an outside linebacker, although he occasionally shifted positions to accommodate the team’s needs. His strength was in tackling and applying pressure to the quarterback. He wasn’t the flashiest player, but coaches and teammates respected his consistency and toughness.
His ability to adapt to different defensive systems across multiple teams made him a valuable utility player. Though he didn’t make Pro Bowl appearances, he left a lasting impression with his work ethic and reliability.
Income Sources and Their Role in Philip Wheeler Net Worth
Apart from NFL contracts, Wheeler has diversified his income sources smartly. After retirement, he engaged in football coaching and training camps, with a particular focus on youth development. He also occasionally appears on sports panels and contributes to football discussions, earning modest media income.
In recent years, Wheeler has begun mentoring younger athletes, which not only brings in income but also positions him as a respected figure in athletic circles.
Main Sources of Income After Retirement
- NFL contracts (primary income)
- Coaching and youth training camps
- Speaking engagements and analyst work
- Merchandising (limited apparel and autographs)
These streams help him maintain financial stability even after leaving professional football.
Real Estate
Real estate has become a key part of Philip Wheeler post-retirement financial strategy. Instead of relying solely on savings or high-risk ventures, Wheeler invested wisely in residential properties primarily in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.
His focus has been on long-term, income-generating assets, such as rental homes and duplex units. These investments provide a stable monthly cash flow and are likely to appreciate in value over time.
Wheeler approach is cautious yet clever; he chooses locations with high demand, ensuring consistent occupancy and minimal financial risk. His entry into real estate demonstrates both financial foresight and a desire to build generational wealth beyond his football career.
Conclusion: Lessons Behind Philip Wheeler Net Worth
Philip Wheeler net worth is a reflection of hard work, wise choices, and financial planning. From Georgia Tech to the NFL, and now into retirement, he has consistently made decisions that support long-term growth rather than temporary glamour.
His ability to stay grounded, invest wisely, and build multiple income streams makes him an ideal case study for how professional athletes can manage and grow their wealth. For fans and aspiring athletes, his story is not just about football, but about setting up for life beyond the game.
Whether through real estate, coaching, or passive income, Philip Wheeler proves that lasting success is more than just earning it’s about preserving and growing what you have.
