It’s strange how fast things can change. One minute Henry Ruggs III is on top of the world a 21-year old wide receiver fresh off being drafted in the first round by the Las Vegas Raiders. He’s got the kind of speed that makes jaws drop (a 4.27-second 40-yard dash doesn’t lie), and he’s already cashed his first million-dollar paycheck. The world was watching, and so far, it liked what it saw.
Fast forward not even two years and Ruggs is in prison. His career is over. A young woman is dead. And all the promise that once hung around his name has vanished.
This isn’t just another “what could’ve been” story. It’s a chilling, tragic example of how one reckless decision can erase years of work — and ruin lives.
Quick Bio: Henry Ruggs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Henry James Ruggs III |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1999 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 26 years old |
| Birthplace | Montgomery, Alabama, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) |
| Weight | 190 lbs (86 kg) |
| High School | Robert E. Lee High School (AL) |
| College | University of Alabama |
| NFL Draft | 2020, Round 1, Pick 12 (Las Vegas Raiders) |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| 40-Yard Dash Time | 4.27 seconds (2020 NFL Combine) |
| Girlfriend | Kiara “Rudy” Washington |
| Henry Ruggs Net Worth | $1.5 – $2 million (as of 2025) |
Who Is Henry Ruggs, Really?
If you followed college football around 2017–2019, the name Henry Ruggs probably rings a bell. He played at Alabama — a program stacked with talent — but even there, he stood out. Not necessarily because he was the biggest receiver or the most polished route-runner, but because he was fast. Like, game-changing fast.
He caught touchdowns in bunches, averaged over 17 yards per catch, and helped Alabama stay on top. His playstyle screamed “big play threat,” and NFL scouts couldn’t ignore that. When the 2020 NFL Draft rolled around, Ruggs was the first wide receiver off the board, going 12th overall to the Raiders. That’s ahead of guys like Justin Jefferson and CeeDee Lamb.
They paid him well, too: a $16.67 million contract, fully guaranteed, with $9.6 million upfront. For a kid who grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, it was life-changing money.
He Was Just Getting Started
Ruggs didn’t explode onto the scene his rookie year, but he had moments. He burned defenses deep, made clutch catches, and showed glimpses of what he could become. In his second year, he seemed to turn a corner. Through just seven games in 2021, he had nearly 500 receiving yards and was on pace for a breakout season.
He was only 22. The future was wide open.
Then Came November 2nd
It was early in the morning when it happened. Ruggs was driving his Corvette through Las Vegas — reportedly drunk, going 156 mph. He crashed into a Toyota RAV4. Inside was 23-year-old Tina Tintor, who was trapped and died in the fire that followed.
Ruggs’ blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit.
The crash wasn’t just an accident. It was a tragedy. And for Ruggs, it was the moment everything ended.
By that evening, the Raiders released him. The league — and most of the world — turned its back. And just like that, Henry Ruggs went from NFL player to inmate.
What’s Left of Henry Ruggs Net Worth?
When you sign a $16.7 million contract, it sounds like you’re set for life. But money drains fast when you’re paying:
- 40–50% in taxes
- 3% to agents and managers
- Legal teams
- Possible civil settlements
By 2025, most sources estimate Henry Ruggs Net Worth to be between $1.5 and $2 million. That’s still a lot by most standards, but considering what he once had lined up — endorsements, future contracts, long-term wealth — it’s a drop in the bucket.
Worse still, that number is likely to shrink further while he serves time. With no income and more expenses, what’s left may eventually disappear.
His Girlfriend, Rudy Washington
Through all of this, one person has remained close to Ruggs: his longtime girlfriend, kiara kilgo-washington. She was in the car during the crash and was injured herself. The two have a daughter together, born in 2020.
People close to them say their relationship has endured despite everything — though it’s hard to imagine the weight of what they’ve gone through. Rudy didn’t just lose the life she thought they were building; she almost lost her own. And now, she’s raising their child while Ruggs serves time behind bars.
Can He Ever Come Back?
Technically, yes. Legally, Ruggs could be released in a few years. His sentence was 3 to 10 years, and with good behavior, he could be out by 2026.
But returning to the NFL? That’s a different conversation.
Teams have taken chances on troubled players before, but this is different. This isn’t a suspension or off-field drama — it’s the death of a young woman. Most agree that no GM would touch this story, no matter how fast Ruggs once was.
Even if he did get a second chance, public backlash would be immediate. The NFL is a business — and right now, Ruggs is radioactive.
What Happens Now?
The truth? Probably nothing. Ruggs will serve his time. When he gets out, he’ll be 27 or 28 — still young but no longer in his prime. He may try to rebuild his life in other ways. Maybe he’ll speak publicly about his mistakes. Perhaps he’ll disappear altogether. Only time will tell.
Final Thoughts
Henry Ruggs had it all — talent, money, a young family, and the backing of one of the biggest franchises in football. But in one night, with one decision, it all vanished.
This isn’t just about Henry Ruggs Net Worth or football stats. It’s about choices. It’s about consequences. And most of all, it’s about the lives that were permanently altered — especially Tina Tintor’s, who will never get a second chance.
As fans, we often build up athletes like they’re untouchable. But the truth is, they’re human — flawed, impulsive, and sometimes dangerously so. Ruggs’ story is tragic. And it should be remembered that way — not just as a fall from grace, but as a stark warning.
FAQs
How much did Ruggs make before his career ended?
He signed a 4-year deal worth $16.67 million but likely took home around $11 million after taxes and fees.
What is Henry Ruggs Net Worth now?
Estimates place the cost at around $1.5–$2 million, with additional expenses to follow.
Where is he now?
Ruggs is currently serving a sentence in Nevada related to the fatal DUI crash in 2021.
Was his girlfriend injured in the crash?
Yes. Kiara “Rudy” Washington was also in the car and sustained injuries.
Could he ever play in the NFL again?
It’s technically possible but almost certainly not going to happen.
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