Andrew Whitworth stands as one of the greatest offensive tackles in NFL history, celebrated for his unmatched consistency, longevity, and leadership both on and off the field. With a career spanning 16 seasons in the National Football League, he left an indelible mark, particularly during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Rams. Beyond football, Andrew is a philanthropist and family man whose life story exemplifies resilience, excellence, and compassion.
This comprehensive biography covers the life and achievements of Andrew Whitworth, exploring his early years, career highlights, personal challenges, and lasting legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Andrew James Whitworth was born on December 12, 1981, in Monroe, Louisiana. He was raised in West Monroe, where his passion for sports began to take root. Andrew attended West Monroe High School, where he became a standout athlete under the legendary Coach Don Shows.
During his high school career, Andrew was part of three Louisiana Class 5A State Championship football teams in 1997, 1998, and 2000. West Monroe High School was crowned national champions in 1998 and 2000. Andrew excelled not only in football, playing as an offensive lineman, but also in tennis and golf. His ability and achievements earned him recognition as one of the top offensive line prospects in the nation.
Whitworth’s parents, Melissa and James Whitworth, nurtured his love for sports and instilled in him the principles of discipline and hard work. These values would guide him through his illustrious career.
College Stardom at LSU
After graduating high school, Andrew Whitworth attended Louisiana State University (LSU) from 2001 to 2005. He redshirted as a freshman in 2001 and became a full-time starter the following year. Andrew’s record-setting run at LSU included 52 starts, the second-most in NCAA Division I history. His reliability earned him accolades as a dominant force on the offensive line.
Key College Achievements:
- 2003: Helped lead LSU to a BCS National Championship victory.
- 2004-2005: Earned First-Team All-SEC honors in consecutive seasons.
- Never allowed a sack in his final two seasons, showcasing elite pass-blocking skills.
Graduating with a degree in general studies in 2005, Andrew declared for the NFL Draft. His college career was a clear testament to his work ethic and exceptional ability to protect quarterbacks and create rushing opportunities.
Professional Career Highlights
Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft (55th overall), Andrew Whitworth quickly established himself as one of the most consistent and durable offensive linemen in the league. Across 239 games and 235 starts, his contributions were critical to his teams’ successes.
Cincinnati Bengals (2006–2016)
Andrew became a pillar of the Bengals’ offensive line for 11 seasons. Originally playing as a left guard, he was transitioned to left tackle in 2009, where his career flourished. Notable achievements with the Bengals include:
- 3 Pro Bowl Selections (2012, 2015, 2016)
- First-Team All-Pro Honors in 2015
- Played an integral role in enabling running backs like Cedric Benson to post 1,000-yard seasons.
While in Cincinnati, his leadership extended beyond the field. Known for his community outreach initiatives, he was deeply involved in the city, building lasting connections with fans and families.
Los Angeles Rams (2017–2022)
Andrew Whitworth signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a free agent in 2017. The move marked a new chapter in his career, as he became a crucial part of the Rams’ resurgence under Coach Sean McVay. Highlights of his time in Los Angeles include:
- Blocking for quarterback Jared Goff and rushing leader Todd Gurley during the Rams’ 2018 NFC Championship season.
- Helping the Rams reach Super Bowl LIII against the New England Patriots.
- Winning Super Bowl LVI in 2022, a poetic finale to his career as the Rams triumphed over his former team, the Bengals.
During his tenure with the Rams, Whitworth became the oldest player to start and win a Super Bowl as an offensive lineman. His dominance in his 40s was unprecedented, showcasing his meticulous preparation and physical resilience.
Awards and Achievements
| Award/Recognition | Details |
|---|---|
| Super Bowl Champion | Super Bowl LVI (2022) |
| Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year | 2021 |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 4 (2012, 2015, 2016, 2017) |
| First-Team All-Pro | 2 (2015, 2017) |
| NFLPA Alan Page Community Award | 2019 |
| BCS National Champion (LSU) | 2003 |
Andrew’s achievements extend beyond the accolades and onto the lives of those he’s impacted through his community service initiatives.
Philanthropy and Off-the-Field Contributions
A dedicated philanthropist, Andrew Whitworth founded the BigWhit 77 Foundation, which focuses on providing mentorship and support to underprivileged children and families. The foundation sponsors various programs, such as educational support, leadership development, and community enrichment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Whitworth donated $250,000 to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, highlighting his commitment to helping those in need. Andrew and his wife, Melissa, have actively engaged with local organizations in both Cincinnati and Los Angeles, supporting causes like pediatric healthcare and veteran services.
Personal Life and Family
Andrew married Melissa Clark in 2006. Melissa, a former Miss Louisiana and media professional, shares Andrew’s passion for philanthropy. Together, they have four children—twins Sarah and Drew, along with Michael and Katherine.
Andrew often credits his family as his motivation and his faith as his guiding principle. He has publicly spoken about returning to his Christian roots and how it shaped his perspective on life and football.
Physical Profile and Net Worth
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 330 lbs (150 kg) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $47 million |
| Position | Offensive Tackle |
Andrew’s financial success reflects his long-term excellence in the NFL, lucrative contracts, endorsement deals, and prudent investments.
Broadcasting Career and Retirement
Following his retirement in 2022, Andrew joined Amazon’s Thursday Night Football as an analyst. His engaging personality and deep knowledge of the game have made him a fan favorite in his new role.
Although retired from football, Andrew Whitworth continues to inspire athletes and fans alike with the lessons of resilience, leadership, and giving back.
Legacy
Andrew Whitworth is more than just an NFL legend; he is a role model for persistence, excellence, and character. His 16-year career, capped with a Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award and a Super Bowl victory, redefined what it means to be an athlete. Whether mentoring teammates, protecting his quarterback, or contributing to his community, Andrew exemplifies what it means to live with purpose.
