From sixth-round underdog to two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL veteran
In short: Ted Karras did not enter the NFL as a blue-chip prospect. Selected in the sixth round of the 2016 draft, the offensive lineman overcame injury setbacks and roster shifts to become a multi-positional force, eventually securing two championship rings and establishing a profound professional football dynasty.
Born in 1993 and raised in Indianapolis, Karras's path to professional football was marked by both resilience and academic discipline. After winning state championships with Cathedral High School in 2008 and 2010, he committed to the University of Illinois. His collegiate career was a test of endurance; he navigated an ankle injury in 2013 and a knee injury in 2014, yet he managed to rack up 43 total starts and earn three Academic All-Big Ten honors. During his time at Illinois, he was a three-star recruit according to major scouting services. He also earned a degree in communications while pursuing further studies in sport and tourism.
Karras entered the NFL via the New England Patriots in 2016, selected 221st overall. His early professional years were defined by versatility. He transitioned from a backup role to a starter at both guard and center, contributing to the Patriots' success in reaching multiple Super Bowls. He secured championship victories in Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons and Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams. He initially joined the Patriots' active roster in September 2017 after being moved to the practice squad. His versatility was highlighted when he filled in at center for David Andrews.
After a single season with the Miami Dolphins in 2020, Karras returned to New England before signing a significant three-year, $18 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2022. Now a veteran leader and team captain, he has become a cornerstone of the Bengals' offensive line. His success is part of a deep family legacy; he is a third-generation player, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Ted Karras Sr., and his granduncles, Lou and Alex Karras. In 2024, he secured a contract extension to remain with the Bengals through 2025. His family's football heritage is notable, as he is the seventh relative across three generations to play in the Big Ten.
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