Overview

Duke Riley (born August 9, 1994) is an American professional football linebacker for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at LSU. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Prior to his NFL career, Riley played college football at Louisiana State University (LSU) from 2013 to 2016. In his senior year, he recorded 93 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and one interception, earning the team’s MVP award. Riley has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his speed and instincts, Riley has become a valuable player. In July 2021, Duke became engaged to social media influencer YesJulz. He has earned approximately $12 million in NFL salary through 2025. His current contract with the Dolphins is a 2-year, $5,000,000 contract.

Miami Dolphins

Linebacker

What Is Duke Riley’s Net Worth?

Duke Riley, an American professional football player renowned for his linebacker skills and special teams excellence, has accumulated a net worth of approximately $5 million. This valuation reflects his earnings from an NFL career that began in 2017 and includes salary, endorsements, and potential investments.

Duke Riley’s Career Earnings and Contract Details

Throughout his NFL career up to 2025, Duke Riley has earned approximately $12 million in salary. His career began with the Atlanta Falcons, who drafted him in the third round (75th overall) in 2017. Riley’s initial rookie contract with the Falcons was a four-year deal worth $3.52 million. This contract provided him with a base salary, signing bonus, and potential performance-based incentives. While the exact details of his subsequent contracts with the Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins are not fully disclosed, they likely included base salaries, signing bonuses, and performance incentives tied to his contributions on special teams, reflecting his value in that area of the game.

In 2020, Riley joined the Philadelphia Eagles, where he significantly enhanced his reputation as a special teams ace. His performance there earned him a contract with the Miami Dolphins in 2022. These contracts typically include incentives based on performance metrics such as tackles, special teams participation, and overall team success.

Duke Riley’s Early Life and College Career

Duke Riley grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana, and attended John Curtis Christian High School. During his high school years, he developed his athletic abilities and leadership skills, setting the foundation for his successful football career. After high school, Riley attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played college football. At LSU, Riley distinguished himself as a defensive leader. In his senior season in 2016, he recorded 93 tackles and led the team in interceptions, earning All-SEC honors. His performance at LSU solidified his status as a promising NFL prospect. He earned his degree in sports administration from LSU, demonstrating his commitment to education alongside his athletic pursuits.

Duke Riley’s NFL Journey and Playing Style

Selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Duke Riley began his professional career with high expectations. After three seasons with the Falcons, primarily as a rotational linebacker, Riley joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020. His time with the Eagles allowed him to find his niche as a special teams ace, showcasing his ability to make significant contributions in that aspect of the game. In 2022, Riley signed with the Miami Dolphins, where he continued to excel in both special teams and defensive roles. He continued to build on his reputation as a versatile player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game.

Riley stands at 6’1″ and weighs 230 pounds. He compensates for his relatively smaller linebacker frame with exceptional speed and instincts. His success on special teams stems from his ability to diagnose plays quickly and his sure tackling in open space. As a linebacker, he’s particularly effective in pass coverage and pursuit plays. His playing style emphasizes speed, agility, and a high football IQ, enabling him to make impactful plays on both special teams and defense.

Duke Riley’s Personal Life and Public Engagements

In July 2021, Duke Riley became engaged to social media influencer YesJulz. However, their engagement ended in January 2024. In January 2025, Julz was revealed as one of the cast members on the Netflix reality show “W.A.G.s… to Riches.” Riley maintains strong ties to the New Orleans community through various charitable initiatives, including youth football camps and hurricane relief efforts. These activities highlight his commitment to giving back to his community and supporting those in need. His efforts in these areas reflect his desire to make a positive impact beyond his football career.

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