Carson Wentz’s NFL career is a rollercoaster of exhilarating highs and frustrating lows. From his days as a top draft pick to his battles with injuries and shifts between teams, Wentz’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering faith in his abilities. Let’s dive into the life and career of Carson Wentz—an athlete whose grit and talent have kept him in the headlines.
Early Life and the Making of a Star
Born on December 30, 1992, in Raleigh, North Carolina, Carson James Wentz moved to North Dakota at the age of three. Raised in Bismarck, he quickly developed into a standout athlete, playing baseball, basketball, and football. While his versatility shined across multiple sports, it was on the football field that Wentz found his true calling.
By the time he graduated from Century High School in 2011, Wentz had established himself as a leader both on and off the field. Not only was he the star quarterback, but he also graduated as valedictorian, showcasing his smarts and dedication. That combination of athletic and academic prowess set the stage for his next chapter.
College Career at North Dakota State
Wentz’s collegiate journey took him to North Dakota State University (NDSU), where he redshirted his freshman year. During his time at NDSU, Wentz played under head coach Craig Bohl and became the driving force behind the team’s dominance in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
By his junior year in 2014, Wentz was the starting quarterback, and his performance was nothing short of spectacular. He led the Bison to a 15-1 record and an FCS national championship. Wentz finished the season with 3,111 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 642 rushing yards, proving he could make plays with both his arm and legs.
In 2015, he continued his stellar play, though a wrist injury sidelined him for a portion of the season. Nevertheless, Wentz returned in time to lead his team to its fifth consecutive FCS title. His leadership and poise earned him the Most Outstanding Player award at the NCAA Division I-AA Championship Game for the second time. By the time he graduated with a degree in health and physical education and a 4.0 GPA, Wentz had already laid the groundwork for an NFL career.
A Fast Start in the NFL
In 2016, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Carson Wentz as the second overall pick in the NFL Draft. Wentz signed a four-year, $26.67 million contract that included a $17.6 million signing bonus. His professional career took off almost immediately when the Eagles traded Sam Bradford, thrusting Wentz into the starting role.
Wentz impressed early, throwing for 3,782 yards and 16 touchdowns in his rookie season. His quick decision-making and poise earned him praise and set high expectations for his future.
2017: The MVP-Caliber Season That Almost Was
The 2017 season was, without question, the peak of Wentz’s career. Leading the Eagles to an 11-2 record, Wentz was in the MVP conversation before a devastating ACL tear against the Rams ended his season prematurely. Despite his absence, the foundation he built allowed backup Nick Foles to step in and lead the Eagles to their first-ever Super Bowl victory.
That year, Wentz earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s rising stars.
Injury Struggles and Setbacks
The following years were marred by injuries and inconsistency. Wentz battled a back injury in 2018, forcing him to sit out the playoffs while Foles led the Eagles on another postseason run. Despite these setbacks, the Eagles believed in Wentz’s potential and awarded him a massive four-year, $128 million contract extension in 2019.
Wentz responded with a strong 2019 season, throwing for over 4,000 yards and leading the Eagles to the playoffs. Unfortunately, another injury—a concussion in the Wild Card game—ended his season abruptly.
In 2020, Wentz’s performance dipped significantly. He led the league in interceptions and turnovers, prompting the Eagles to bench him in favor of rookie Jalen Hurts. This decision ultimately led to Wentz being traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2021.
Life with the Colts and Beyond
The Colts were hopeful that Wentz could rekindle his 2017 form. While Wentz showed flashes of brilliance, a foot injury during training camp set the tone for another season of ups and downs. The Colts narrowly missed the playoffs, and Wentz’s future with the team became uncertain.
Despite these challenges, Wentz remains determined to continue his NFL career, demonstrating resilience that few can match.
Personal Life and Net Worth
Carson Wentz, now 32 years old as of 2025, enjoys life off the field with his wife, Madison Oberg. The couple married in 2018 and has since welcomed two children into their lives. Family and faith play a significant role in Wentz’s personal journey, grounding him through the highs and lows of his career.
As of 2025, Wentz boasts a net worth of $45 million. His wealth stems from lucrative NFL contracts, endorsement deals, and smart real estate investments. In 2021, Wentz listed his sprawling New Jersey estate for $1.7 million, showcasing his love for the outdoors with features like a hunting room, heated pool, and picturesque views.
A Career Defined by Perseverance
Carson Wentz’s journey in the NFL is far from over. While injuries and inconsistent play have shaped his story, Wentz’s talent and work ethic remain undeniable. Whether he’s leading a new team or mentoring younger quarterbacks, Wentz’s influence in the league continues to grow.
For fans of the underdog, Wentz’s career serves as a reminder that setbacks are just part of the journey. And if his past is any indication, there’s plenty left for Carson Wentz to prove on the football field.
