Keelan White 2025: Net Worth, Contract, Salary, Career Earnings

Keelan White has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in Canadian football.

The North Vancouver native made an impressive leap from college walk-on to CFL first-round draft pick, showcasing the determination and skill that define elite athletes. His journey from the University of Montana to the Ottawa RedBlacks represents a dream fulfilled for the 23-year-old receiver.

In this article, you will know Keelan White’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship details, and more about this rising CFL star.

Keelan White’s Biography

Early Career

Keelan White’s football journey began in North Vancouver, where he played for Handsworth Secondary School under the guidance of his father, Richard White, who served as head coach. Growing up in a football family proved instrumental in shaping his athletic development.

His father Richard was a former CFL linebacker who played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and BC Lions during the 1980s after starring at Simon Fraser University. His mother Tracy also contributed to his athletic genes, having played flag football competitively and reaching the Canadian championships.

White’s talent became evident during his high school years when he led all AAA players in British Columbia with 128 receiving yards per game during his senior season in 2018. His exceptional performance earned him recognition as one of two North Shore players named to the provincial AAA all-star team.

Beyond high school competition, White represented his country on the international stage, playing for Team Canada’s U16 and U18 squads in games against American teams. He also competed in the 2019 International Bowl as a member of Football Canada’s junior national team.

Professional Career

White’s college career at the University of Montana exemplified perseverance and gradual improvement. Beginning as a true freshman walk-on in 2019, he appeared in just three games and caught his first collegiate pass against Idaho for five yards.

His dedication during fall camp impressed coaches enough to earn him playing time, though his role remained limited in his first season.

The breakthrough came during his redshirt freshman year in 2020-21 when White established himself as a reliable option in Montana’s talented receiving corps. He caught 22 passes for 156 yards while also contributing on special teams with eight punt returns for 76 yards. His steady development earned him a scholarship after his first season, validating his decision to walk on at Montana.

White’s progression continued through his sophomore and junior seasons. In 2022, he recorded 22 catches for 213 yards and four touchdowns while starting 12 games. However, his junior year in 2023 marked his true emergence as a star.

White led the team with 54 receptions for 798 yards and four touchdowns, earning Montana’s Offensive MVP award. The highlight of that season came against Sacramento State when he hauled in a 97-yard touchdown reception, setting new school records for both longest touchdown reception and longest play from scrimmage in program history.

Keelan White’s Net Worth Details

As of 2025, Keelan White’s estimated net worth is approximately $150,000 to $200,000.

Contract

White signed with the Ottawa RedBlacks following his selection as the third overall pick in the 2025 CFL Draft. As a first-round draft pick, he likely received a signing bonus and a multi-year contract.

The RedBlacks invested significantly in White, viewing him as a cornerstone piece for their receiving corps after the season-ending injury to Nick Mardner created an immediate starting opportunity.

Salary

While White’s exact salary remains undisclosed, CFL rookie salaries typically range from $50,000 to $80,000 CAD for first-round picks. As the third overall selection, White likely earns toward the higher end of this range.

The 2025 CFL salary cap was set at $6,062,365, representing a significant increase from the previous year. Given his draft position and immediate impact, White’s rookie contract likely includes performance incentives and escalators based on playing time and statistical achievements.

Career Earnings

Career Statistics

1. How did Keelan White get drafted to the CFL?

White was selected third overall by the Ottawa RedBlacks in the 2025 CFL Draft after an outstanding college career at the University of Montana. He earned this selection by leading the Grizzlies in receptions for two consecutive seasons and ranking fifth on the CFL Scouting Bureau’s winter top 20 prospects list.

2. What is Keelan White’s connection to his nickname “The Canadian Spider”?

White earned the nickname “The Canadian Spider” due to his love for Spider-Man. He calls himself a “crazy Spider-Man nerd” who has played all the video games, seen every movie, and owns extensive Spider-Man memorabilia. His favorite Spider-Man actor is Andrew Garfield, which he admits is a controversial choice.

3. Did White’s father play professional football?

Yes, Richard White played as a linebacker in the CFL during the 1980s for both the Saskatchewan Roughriders and BC Lions. He also starred at Simon Fraser University before his professional career and currently serves as head coach at Handsworth Secondary School where Keelan played high school football.

4. What records does White hold at the University of Montana?

White holds the school record for the longest play from scrimmage with a 97-yard touchdown reception against Sacramento State. He also ranks 11th in program history for career receptions with 161 catches and 21st for career receiving yards with 1,862 yards.

5. How has White performed in his rookie CFL season?

White has made an immediate impact with the Ottawa RedBlacks, catching 13 passes for 143 yards in his first five games. He has been targeted 17 times and has shown reliable hands while averaging 11.0 yards per reception, demonstrating his ability to contribute as a rookie starter.