Duke Riley Net Worth, Life, Legacy, and Love Story of Julz Goddard s Ex-Fiancé

Duke Riley, the 30-year-old professional football player and former fiancé of social media influencer Julz Goddard (known as YesJulz), has been at the center of headlines recently, thanks to his connection to Netflix’s W.A.G.s to Riches and the revelations from Goddard’s emotional journey. Known for his impressive career as a linebacker in the NFL and his larger-than-life persona, Duke Riley has an intriguing story of his own, marked by professional achievements, personal struggles, and the complexities of fame and relationships.

The Early Years of Duke Riley

Born on August 9, 1994, in Buras, Louisiana, Duke Riley grew up with a love for football and a dream to make it big. Standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 230 pounds, his natural talent and determination on the field set him apart from a young age. Duke attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played college football for the Tigers and quickly made a name for himself as a formidable force on the field.

Riley’s hard work paid off when he was selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. His NFL career has since included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Miami Dolphins, where he became a fan favorite for his tenacity and leadership on the field.

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Duke Riley’s Net Worth and Professional Success

As of 2025, Duke Riley’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His wealth primarily comes from his NFL contracts, endorsements, and investments. During his career, he has signed several lucrative deals, including his recent contract extension with the Miami Dolphins. Beyond football, Duke has shown interest in philanthropy, often giving back to his community in Louisiana.

While his professional success is undeniable, Riley’s life off the field has often attracted just as much attention. His relationship with Julz Goddard brought him into the spotlight in a new way, with fans fascinated by their dynamic and the ups and downs of their romance.

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The Love Story with Julz Goddard

Duke Riley and Julz Goddard’s relationship was a whirlwind of passion, public moments, and eventual heartbreak. The couple got engaged in July 2021 during Miami’s Rolling Loud Music Festival, a memorable event that symbolized their deep connection. Just months later, in March 2022, they welcomed their first child, a daughter named River.

For a time, their life together seemed picture-perfect. Duke embraced fatherhood with pride, often sharing glimpses of his bond with River on social media. However, their relationship was not without its challenges. By January 2024, Julz hinted at their breakup on Instagram with a cryptic post, signaling that their love story had come to an end.

Despite the split, Duke’s role as a father remains a cornerstone of his life. River’s early health struggles brought the family closer, as they navigated her diagnosis of Gastroschisis, a rare condition requiring immediate surgery at birth. Duke and Julz worked together to provide their daughter with the best care possible, and today, River is thriving.

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Controversy and Complexity

While Duke Riley’s professional life has been steady, his personal life has often been the subject of public scrutiny. The recent revelations from W.A.G.s to Riches shed light on the emotional turmoil Julz experienced during their relationship, particularly when she became pregnant again and ultimately decided to have an abortion.

Julz shared that Duke had expressed he wasn’t ready for another child at the time, a sentiment that left her grappling with the difficult decision. “I didn’t want to have an abortion,” she admitted on the show, explaining her fears of becoming a struggling single mom of two.

While the details of their relationship remain deeply personal, the narrative highlights the complexity of navigating love, parenthood, and personal choices in the public eye.

Duke Riley’s Family Life and Values

Family has always been a significant part of Duke Riley’s life. In addition to his daughter River, Duke has two sons from a previous relationship. He’s often spoken about the importance of being a present and supportive father, a value he carries with him both on and off the field.

Duke’s commitment to his children is evident in the way he balances his demanding football career with his responsibilities as a dad. Though his relationship with Julz ended, their shared dedication to co-parenting River reflects their mutual love for their daughter and their desire to provide her with a stable and loving environment.

A Legacy Beyond Football

Duke Riley’s impact extends far beyond the gridiron. As a father, partner, and role model, he has navigated the highs and lows of life with grace and determination. His story is one of triumph, heartbreak, and the enduring pursuit of greatness. For Julz Goddard and their daughter River, Duke will always be a significant part of their lives, a reminder of the love and strength that brought them together.