Bryce Ford-Wheaton

BIOGRAPHY

Bryce Ford-Wheaton, an American professional football player, was born on March 9, 2000, in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Today, he is known as one of the National Football League’s (NFL) wide receivers, a position he plays for the New York Giants. His journey to a flourishing NFL career began in the quiet town of Fuquay-Varina, reaching giant leaps in West Virginia and New York City.

As a child growing up, Ford-Wheaton developed an affinity towards sports, specifically football. He attended Holly Springs High School where he emerged as a versatile sports star. He excelled in both track and football and was recognized as one of the state’s most gifted wide receivers. His prowess in the sport wasn’t limited to only playing as a receiver but also extended to other positions such as a defensive back. Owing to his demonstrated athleticism and skill, he was ranked as a three-star recruit.

Ford-Wheaton’s talent captured several offers from colleges looking to add his extensive skill set to their teams. After weighing his options, he decided to pursue his collegiate football journey at West Virginia University (WVU). This decision was influenced by personal family legacy, as his grandfather Garrett Ford Sr. and uncle Garrett Ford Jr. had attended WVU.

During his freshman year in 2018, Ford-Wheaton was redshirted. Despite this, he managed to have a brief appearance in the game against Baylor. In the following year, his appearances in games increased to 11, with two of them as a starter. He had a commendable performance, making 12 receptions for 201 yards and scoring two touchdowns. One of these touchdowns was notably a 50-yard score against the Kansas State.

In the 2020 season, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford-Wheaton’s resilience and performance remained steadfast. He played in all nine games and made 27 receptions. His reception count was the fourth-highest on the team. Alongside this, he made 416 yards with three touchdown scores. This year was marked with a first in WVU history: Ford-Wheaton was the player to wear the jersey number “0”. His remarkable skills and powerful performances were recognized as he was chosen to receive the Iron Mountaineer Award, given to exemplary performers in the offseason strength and conditioning program.

As the years progressed, so did Ford-Wheaton’s talent and impact on the game. In 2021, he ended the season placing second on the team with 42 catches for 575 yards and three touchdowns, wrapping up this time with a notable catch against Iowa State that led WVU to a win. Honoring his hard work and commitment, both on and off the field, he received fourth-team all-conference choice accolades and was named to his school’s academic honor roll, which bore the name of his grandfather.

In the following year of 2022, his consistent and impressive high-level performances continued to shine. Scoring seven touchdowns and recording 62 receptions, he led the team in these categories. He also gained 675 yards off his recoveries, placing second on the team. His performances earned him recognition as a second-team All-Big 12 Conference selection, after which he declared his availability for the NFL draft.

Scouts at the NFL Scouting Combine in 2023 were impressed by Ford-Wheaton’s performance. And although he was projected to be an NFL Draft pick, he eventually was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent on May 5, 2023. However, the celebration was short-lived as he tore his ACL in a preseason game against the New York Jets, an injury that placed him on injured reserve on August 27, 2023.

While his journey has been marked by significant highlights and challenges, Ford-Wheaton’s story continues to inspire many. His journey from North Carolina to becoming a professional NFL wide receiver displays his relentless determination and passion for the sport. His story is not limited to what he’s achieved on the field, but also his memorable journey off the field, exemplifying resilience, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the sport.