Drue Tranquill has steadily risen as one of the most dependable linebackers in the NFL. Known for his versatility and leadership both on and off the field, he currently plays for the Kansas City Chiefs.
This article explores his personal life, professional career, relationship status, net worth, contract details, and career records.
Drue Tranquill’s Biography
| Full Name | Drue Tranquill |
| Nickname | None |
| Birth Date | August 15, 1995 |
| Age | 29 years |
| Birthplace | Fort Wayne, Indiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Weight | 234 lbs (106 kg) |
| College | Notre Dame |
| Turned Pro | 2019 |
| Net Worth | $7 million |
| Current Salary | $6.75 million |
| Spouse | Jackie Tranquill |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Children | Three (Elijah, Anna, Mackenzie) |
| Instagram Profile | @druetranquill |
Drue Tranquill was born on August 15, 1995, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. A standout athlete from a young age, he attended Notre Dame for college football before being drafted into the NFL.
Early Career
Drue Tranquill’s early career is a testament to his resilience and determination. Growing up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he attended Carroll High School, where he excelled as both a linebacker and running back.
As a senior, he recorded 75 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, four sacks, and an interception on defense while rushing for 1,420 yards and 28 touchdowns on offense. Initially committed to Purdue University, Tranquill later accepted an offer from Notre Dame, where he believed he could develop further as an athlete and student.
At Notre Dame, Tranquill faced significant challenges but emerged stronger each time. As a freshman in 2014, he played in 11 games, recording 33 tackles and earning recognition as Notre Dame’s Newcomer of the Year on defense. However, his sophomore season was cut short due to a torn ACL.
Despite this setback, Tranquill returned with renewed focus, starting all 12 games in 2016 and tallying 79 tackles and an interception. In his senior year (2017), he transitioned from safety to linebacker, recording 85 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and leading the team in fumble recoveries.
Tranquill’s fifth year in 2018 was his most impactful. As a graduate student in mechanical engineering with a stellar GPA of 3.73, he captained the Fighting Irish to their first College Football Playoff appearance. That season, he recorded 75 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and three pass breakups while earning the prestigious Wuerffel Trophy for combining community service with athletic and academic excellence.
Overcoming two ACL tears during his college career, Tranquill played in 51 games for Notre Dame and left as one of its most respected leaders. His perseverance set the stage for his transition to the NFL in 2019.
Professional Career
Drue Tranquill’s professional career began in 2019 when he was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. As a rookie, he made an immediate impact, playing in 15 games and recording 75 tackles, including 61 solo tackles.
His versatility and intelligence on the field quickly earned him recognition. Unfortunately, his second season in 2020 was derailed after he suffered a severe ankle injury in Week 1, limiting him to just one game.
In 2021, Tranquill returned stronger, playing 14 games and recording 76 tackles with 1.5 sacks. By 2022, he had his breakout year with the Chargers, posting career-high stats of 146 total tackles, five sacks, and an interception across all 17 games. This performance established him as one of the league’s most reliable linebackers.
In 2023, Tranquill signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs worth $3 million. He played a vital role in their defense, stepping up as a starter when Nick Bolton was injured. Tranquill recorded 78 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles during the season while helping the Chiefs secure their Super Bowl LVIII victory. After this successful season, he signed a three-year extension with Kansas City in March 2024 worth $19 million.
In his first Super Bowl appearance with the Chiefs in February 2024, Tranquill contributed two tackles as they defeated the San Francisco 49ers. The following year, in Super Bowl LVIX (February 2025), he recorded an impressive performance with seven solo tackles and one sack as Kansas City triumphed over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Now in his sixth NFL season and second with the Chiefs, Tranquill continues to be a critical component of their defense. Known for his leadership and ability to adapt to different roles within defensive schemes, he remains a valuable asset for Kansas City as they aim for sustained success.
Wife
Drue Tranquill is married to Jackie Tranquill, whom he met in high school. The couple tied the knot on July 14, 2018, in their hometown of Fort Wayne. Jackie is a health educator and has supported Drue throughout his career.
Together they have three children: Elijah James (born May 19, 2019), Anna Grace (born April 26, 2021), and Mackenzie Joy (born November 17, 2022). The family frequently shares moments on Instagram.
Drue Tranquill’s Net Worth Details
Drue Tranquill’s net worth is estimated to be $7 million as of 2025.
Contract
Drue Tranquill’s current contract with the Kansas City Chiefs is a three-year deal worth $19 million, signed in March 2024. The contract includes $12.5 million in guaranteed money and a $4.5 million signing bonus. Tranquill’s average annual salary under this agreement is approximately $6.33 million.
For the 2025 season, he is set to earn a base salary of $6.75 million, along with a $250,000 workout bonus, resulting in a total cash payout of $7 million for the year. His cap hit for 2025 stands at $8.5 million, while the dead cap value is $9.75 million.
The deal also features performance-based incentives, such as a per-game active bonus of $30,000 for the 2026 season, further enhancing its value. This contract reflects Tranquill’s growing importance to the Chiefs’ defense after his impactful performances during his first year with the team.
Drue Tranquill’s salary for the 2025 NFL season reflects his growing value as a key player for the Kansas City Chiefs. He is set to earn a base salary of $6.75 million, along with an additional $250,000 workout bonus, bringing his total cash earnings for the year to $7 million.
His contract carries a cap hit of $8.5 million for the Chiefs, while the dead cap value stands at $9.75 million, ensuring his financial security even in the event of release. This salary is part of his three-year, $19 million contract signed in 2024, which guarantees him $12.5 million and includes a $4.5 million signing bonus. With these terms, Tranquill continues to solidify his role as a reliable and well-compensated linebacker in the NFL.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Earnings |
| 2019 | Los Angeles Chargers | $1,153,808 |
| 2020 | Los Angeles Chargers | $677,304 |
| 2021 | Los Angeles Chargers | $780,000 |
| 2022 | Los Angeles Chargers | $2,540,000 |
| 2023 | Kansas City Chiefs | $2,940,000 |
| 2024 | Kansas City Chiefs | $6,000,000 |
| Total (through 2025) | $27 million |
Endorsements
Drue Tranquill’s endorsement portfolio is relatively modest compared to some of his NFL peers, but it reflects his growing presence in the league. Currently, he is associated with Q30 Collars, a brand focused on athlete safety and concussion prevention.
While the financial details of this partnership remain undisclosed, it aligns with Tranquill’s commitment to player health and well-being. Beyond endorsements, he also engages in philanthropic work, supporting organizations like Operation Breakthrough and Kids Alive International alongside his wife.
Though he has yet to secure high-profile sponsorships, his consistent on-field performance and leadership qualities could attract more lucrative endorsement deals in the future.
| Year | Team | Total Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles |
| 2019 | Los Angeles Chargers | 75 | – | – |
| 2020 | Los Angeles Chargers | – | – | – |
| 2021 | Los Angeles Chargers | 76 | 1.5 | – |
| 2022 | Los Angeles Chargers | 146 | 5 | – |
| 2023 | Kansas City Chiefs | 78 | 4.5 | – |
FAQs
1. Who is Drue Tranquill?
Drue Tranquill is an NFL linebacker currently playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Before his professional career, he played college football at Notre Dame, where he earned numerous accolades, including the Wuerffel Trophy.
2. What is Drue Tranquill’s educational background?
Drue Tranquill graduated from Notre Dame with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and maintained a 3.73 GPA. He was recognized for his academic achievements, including being a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy, often referred to as the “Academic Heisman.”
3. What are Drue Tranquill’s career highlights in the NFL?
Drue Tranquill has recorded over 470 total tackles, 13 sacks, and one interception during his NFL career. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2019 and achieved a career-high 126 tackles during the 2022 season with the Chargers.
4. What position did Drue Tranquill play in college?
Drue Tranquill started his college career at Notre Dame as a safety before transitioning to linebacker in 2017. This positional change showcased his versatility and led to significant contributions on defense during his final two seasons.
5. What awards has Drue Tranquill won?
Drue Tranquill received several awards during his college career, including the Wuerffel Trophy in 2018 for combining community service with athletic and academic excellence. He was also a two-time team captain at Notre Dame and earned First-Team Academic All-American honors.
6. What is Drue Tranquill’s contract with the Kansas City Chiefs?
Drue Tranquill signed a three-year contract extension with the Chiefs worth $19 million, including $12.5 million guaranteed and a $4.5 million signing bonus. His average annual salary is approximately $6.33 million.
7. How does Drue Tranquill balance football and family life?
Drue Tranquill credits his wife Jackie for managing their household while he pursues his football career. The couple has three children: Elijah, Anna Grace, and Mackenzie Joy. He often expresses gratitude for Jackie’s support during challenging times like training camps.
8. Why does Drue Tranquill wear the Q-Collar?
Drue Tranquill wears the FDA-cleared Q-Collar to protect his brain from repetitive head impacts during football games. He began using it in college as part of a pilot study and resumed wearing it in 2022 to prioritize long-term health and safety.
9. Who is Drue Tranquill’s wife?
Drue Tranquill married Jackie, his high school sweetheart, in 2018. Jackie frequently shares moments of their family life on social media, highlighting their love story and their shared commitment to raising their three children.
10. What inspires Drue Tranquill as an athlete?
Drue Tranquill draws inspiration from his family, particularly his wife and children. He views football as a platform to teach life lessons such as overcoming adversity and building relationships while striving to be a role model both on and off the field.
