Mike Pennel has carved out a remarkable NFL career as a defensive tackle, overcoming the odds as an undrafted free agent to become a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs. Known for his imposing 6’4″, 330-pound frame and run-stopping prowess, Pennel’s journey from small-college standout to NFL veteran exemplifies resilience.
This article explores his personal life, career milestones, financial standing, and career statistics.
Mike Pennel’s Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Michael Maurice Pennel Jr. |
| Nickname | — |
| Born | May 9, 1991 (Topeka, KS) |
| Age | 33 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height/Weight | 6’4”, 330 lbs |
| College | Colorado State University-Pueblo |
| Turned Pro | 2014 (Undrafted, signed with Green Bay Packers) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
| Salary | $1.21 million |
| Relationship Status | |
| Instagram Profile |
Early Career
Mike Pennel’s football journey began at Scottsdale Community College, a junior college where he first showcased his potential as a defensive lineman.
His standout performance there earned him a transfer to Arizona State University in 2012, but disciplinary issues led to his suspension and eventual dismissal from the team. Determined to continue his career, Pennel moved to Division II Colorado State University-Pueblo in 2013.
At CSU-Pueblo, he became a dominant force on the defensive line, recording 36 tackles, three sacks, and two fumble recoveries in just 12 games. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him First-Team All-Rocky Mountain Conference honors and caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Despite his late transition to a four-year program and the challenges of playing at a smaller school, Pennel’s raw power and agility made him a compelling prospect. His resilience paid off when he declared for the 2014 NFL Draft, though he went undrafted.
Shortly after, he signed with the Green Bay Packers as a free agent, marking the start of his professional journey. This underdog beginning—from junior college to undrafted NFL signee—highlighted his perseverance and set the stage for a career defined by overcoming obstacles.
Professional Career
Mike Pennel’s professional journey began in 2014 when he signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent. Despite limited initial playing time, he emerged as a rotational defensive tackle, recording 25 tackles and one sack in 2015.
His tenure with the Packers was marred by suspensions for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, leading to his release in 2016. Pennel rebounded with the New York Jets (2017–2018), starting 10 games and posting career highs in tackles (62 total, 35 solo in 2017).
After brief stops with the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, becoming a key contributor to their Super Bowl LIV victory with 24 tackles and a sack in eight regular-season games.
After stints with the Chicago Bears and Falcons, he returned to Kansas City in 2023, playing a pivotal role in their Super Bowl LVIII win. Known for his run-stopping ability, Pennel has amassed 231 career tackles, five sacks, and three forced fumbles over 121 regular-season games.
In 2024, he signed a one-year, $1.21 million contract with the Chiefs, continuing his reputation as a durable and reliable defensive asset.
Mike Pennel’s Net Worth Details
Mike Pennel’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million as of 2025.
Contract
In March 2024, Pennel signed a one-year, $1.21 million contract with the Chiefs, including a $167,500 roster bonus and $9,765 workout incentive. This marked his fourth season with Kansas City, where he remains a rotational defensive tackle.
Salary
For the 2024 season, Pennel earns a base salary of $1.21 million, with additional bonuses bringing his total earnings to $1.38 million. His career-high single-season earnings came in 2018 with the Jets ($2.75 million).
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Earnings |
| 2014 | Green Bay Packers | $420,000 |
| 2015 | Green Bay Packers | $585,000 |
| 2016 | Green Bay Packers | $600,000 |
| 2017 | New York Jets | $1,750,000 |
| 2018 | New York Jets | $2,750,000 |
| 2019 | Kansas City Chiefs | $805,000 |
| 2020 | Kansas City Chiefs | $1,050,000 |
| 2021 | Atlanta Falcons | $990,000 |
| 2022 | Chicago Bears | $1,035,000 |
| 2023 | Kansas City Chiefs | $1,152,077 |
| 2024 | Kansas City Chiefs | $1,387,265 |
| Total | $12,358,077 |
Career Stats
| Stat Category | Regular Season | Playoffs |
| Games Played | 121 | 13 |
| Total Tackles | 197 | 16 |
| Sacks | 2 | 0 |
| Forced Fumbles | 2 | 0 |
| Pass Deflections | 4 | 0 |
FAQs
1. What position does Mike Pennel play in the NFL?
Mike Pennel plays nose tackle, specializing in run defense and occupying multiple blockers. Standing 6’4″ and 330 lbs, his primary role involves disrupting offensive lines. He’s known for his strength at the line of scrimmage, particularly in short-yardage situations for the Kansas City Chiefs.
2. Which teams has Mike Pennel played for?
Pennel’s NFL journey includes the Green Bay Packers (2014-2016), New York Jets (2017-2018), Atlanta Falcons (2021), Chicago Bears (2022), and Kansas City Chiefs (2019-2020, 2023-present). He won Super Bowls LIV and LVIII with Kansas City during two separate stints with the team.
3. Where did Mike Pennel play college football?
After attending Scottsdale Community College and Arizona State University, Pennel transferred to Colorado State University-Pueblo. He became a standout defensive lineman for the ThunderWolves, recording 75 tackles and 4 sacks in his final college season before entering the 2014 NFL Draft.
4. What is Mike Pennel’s role with the Chiefs?
As a rotational nose tackle, Pennel provides veteran depth behind starter Derrick Nnadi. His 2024 season saw increased snaps (17 games, 7 starts) with 25 tackles and 3 sacks. During playoff runs, he typically sees expanded responsibilities in run-stopping situations.
5. What are Mike Pennel’s career statistics?
Through 10 NFL seasons (138 games), Pennel has recorded 231 total tackles, 5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. His best statistical season came with the 2017 Jets (35 tackles), while his 2024 campaign with Kansas City marked a career-high 3 sacks.
6. How many Super Bowls has Pennel won?
Pennel has two Super Bowl championships – LIV (2019 season) and LVIII (2023 season), both with Kansas City. In Super Bowl LVIII, he played 28 defensive snaps and helped limit the 49ers to 3.9 yards per carry while earning PFF’s highest defensive grade for the game.
7. Why did Pennel re-sign with Kansas City in 2024?
The veteran cited familiarity with the system and unfinished business as key factors. His 2024 contract (1 year, $1.3M) followed a productive playoff performance where he recorded 12 tackles and became essential after injuries to other defensive linemen.
8. What challenges has Pennel faced in his career?
Early career struggles included multiple suspensions (2016) for substance policy violations. After being cut by Green Bay in 2017, he revitalized his career with the Jets. Later challenges involved maintaining roster spots, with multiple practice squad elevations before securing permanent roles.
9. What makes Pennel valuable to NFL teams?
Teams value his run-stopping expertise, with a career average of 2.3 yards allowed per carry when engaged. His 2024 metrics included 15 run stuffs (tackles at/behind LOS) and the ability to command double teams on 38% of snaps, creating opportunities for linebackers.
10. Is Mike Pennel still active in the NFL?
Yes, as of February 2025, Pennel remains under contract with Kansas City. The 33-year-old signed a one-year extension in December 2024 and continues serving as a key rotational defender, having played 17 regular season games and 3 playoff contests in the 2024-25 season.
