Charlie Kolar

Charlie Kolar's Biography

Charlie Kolar’s journey from a promising high school athlete to a professional in the National Football League constitutes a fascinating narrative characterized by resilience, determination, and extraordinary talent on the football field. Born on February 10, 1999, the American football star is renowned for playing as a tight end for the Baltimore Ravens, a respected team in the NFL.

Charlie’s love for the sport can be traced back to his formative years growing up in Norman, Oklahoma. Kolar attended Norman North High School, where his sports talent blossomed not only in football but also in basketball. His junior high school years were marked by his remarkable performance in football, catching 52 passes for a yardage of 920 and making 13 touchdowns. This impressive prowess in the field earned him the first-team All-State title during his senior year, after recording 66 receptions for 1,240 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also had the privilege of playing as a basketball teammate with NBA All-Star Trae Young at Norman North.

Kolar’s exceptional performance was a catalyst for multiple college offers, notably from Air Force, Army, and Stephen F. Austin. Nevertheless, he chose to join Iowa State, a decision made before his senior year, even after a late attempt by Oklahoma State to recruit him. His introduction to college football started with a redshirt year during his true freshman season.

As a redshirt freshman, Kolar had the opportunity of playing in all 13 of Iowa State’s games. His impact was significant, finishing with 11 receptions covering 137 yards, three touchdowns, and earning the title of second-team All-Big 12 Conference awarded by the league’s coaches. Further honing his skills in his redshirt sophomore year, Kolar nabbed 51 passes for 697 yards and seven touchdowns, thus being named first-team All-Big 12.

After contemplating entry into the 2020 NFL draft, Charlie decided to return for his redshirt junior season, a choice that saw him again named first-team All-Big 12, after 44 receptions, 591 yards, and a team-leading seven touchdown receptions. In 2021, Kolar accomplished the academic feat of receiving The William V. Campbell Trophy, also known as the “Academic Heisman”.

Kolar’s professional leap into the NFL came in 2022 when he was selected 128th overall in the fourth round by the Baltimore Ravens. However, due to injury, Kolar was placed on the injured reserve list on August 31, 2022. He made his much-anticipated return on November 8th the same year.

Kolar made his NFL debut weeks later against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but only participated in two snaps. His career breakthrough arrived in Week 18 when he made his first career catch in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Kolar managed to catch four passes for 49 yards supplied by Anthony Brown, despite the Ravens losing 16-27.

Although Kolar began the season as Baltimore’s third tight end option behind Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews, injuries provided him the opportunity to step up. After Andrews had to sit out the rest of the regular season due to a severe ankle injury, Kolar took his chance with both hands, making three starts in the final six games. His first ever touchdown arrived in Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins, catching a 19-yard reception from Tyler Huntley that contributed to a 56-19 win.

Apart from Charlie’s career highlights, it’s worth mentioning that his older brother, John Kolar, is also affiliated with football. John played as a quarterback at Oklahoma State before transferring to Iowa State for the 2019 season. Their younger sister, Katie, is committed to play volleyball at West Virginia University. Like her brothers, she continues to carry their family’s sporting prowess, which is a testament to their athletic dynasty.