Jermaine Wiggins, a former NFL tight end and Super Bowl champion, has carved out a remarkable legacy both on and off the football field. Known for his impactful tenure with the New England Patriots and his vibrant career in broadcasting, Wiggins has become a prominent Massachusetts sports figure. This article delves into his NFL career, post-NFL career, and personal life, exploring his journey as an American football player, sports radio host, and family man while highlighting his contributions to the community.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Born on January 18, 1975, in East Boston, Massachusetts, Jermaine Wiggins grew up in a tight-knit community that shaped his love for sports. A Brockton native by way of his later affiliations, Wiggins displayed an early passion for athletics, excelling in both football and basketball at East Boston High School. His athletic background was evident as he earned All-City and All-League honors in football and led his basketball team to a state championship during his junior year.
After graduating in 1993, Wiggins attended Bridgton Academy in Maine for a year of post-graduate study, a pivotal step in his football journey. This experience broadened his perspective and prepared him for the challenges of college football. His jersey was later retired by East Boston High School in 2011, a testament to his impact as a local hero.
Jermaine Wiggins College Career
Wiggins’ Jermaine Wiggins college career began at Marshall University, where he showcased his skills as a tight end, leading the team with 54 receptions for 681 yards in 1995. His performance helped Marshall reach the I-AA Championship finals. When his coach, Jim Donnan, moved to the University of Georgia, Wiggins transferred to the Bulldogs, sitting out the 1996 season before playing in the SEC in 1997 and 1998. At Georgia, he contributed to back-to-back bowl game victories, solidifying his reputation as a reliable former NFL tight end in the making.
NFL Career: A Journey Through Multiple Teams
Jermaine Wiggins entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the New York Jets in 1999. His NFL career spanned seven years, during which he played for several teams, including the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, Minnesota Vikings, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Below is a table summarizing his Jermaine Wiggins dates joined and key contributions with each team:
Team | Jermaine Wiggins Dates Joined | Key Contributions |
New York Jets | 1999 | Caught a touchdown in the “Monday Night Miracle” comeback against Miami in 2000. |
New England Patriots | 2000 | Won Super Bowl champion title in 2001, with a key catch in Super Bowl XXXVI. |
Indianapolis Colts | 2002 | Played part of the season, contributing as a rotational tight end. |
Carolina Panthers | 2002–2003 | Helped team win NFC Championship in 2003. |
Jermaine Wiggins Vikings | 2004–2006 | Played three seasons, though involved in the “Love Boat Scandal.” |
Jacksonville Jaguars | 2007 | Released after a preseason concussion. |
Jermaine Wiggins Patriots: A Career-Defining Stint
Wiggins’ time with the New England Patriots was the highlight of his NFL career. Joining the team in 2000, he played a crucial role in their 2001 Super Bowl champion season. His standout performance came during the “Snow Bowl” against the Oakland Raiders in the AFC Divisional Round, where he recorded 10 receptions for 68 yards in a dramatic overtime victory. In Super Bowl XXXVI, Jermaine Wiggins Patriots legacy was cemented when he caught a pass that set up Adam Vinatieri’s game-winning 48-yard field goal against the St. Louis Rams.
Jermaine Wiggins Stats
Throughout his career, Jermaine Wiggins stats reflect his reliability as a tight end. Over 107 games, he amassed 236 receptions, 2,141 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns. His tight end stats highlight his ability to make clutch catches, particularly in high-stakes playoff games. Below is a table summarizing his career statistics:
Statistic | Total |
Games Played | 107 |
Receptions | 236 |
Receiving Yards | 2,141 |
Touchdowns | 14 |
Post-NFL Career: A Voice in Sports Media
After hanging up his cleats, Jermaine Wiggins transitioned into a career in broadcasting, leveraging his engaging personality and deep football knowledge. His post-NFL career has made him a beloved media personality in Boston, where he has become a staple in sports media.
Jermaine Wiggins WEEI and Media Ventures
As a sports radio host, Jermaine Wiggins WEEI presence began with appearances on 98.5 The Sports Hub alongside Michael Felger and Tony Massarotti until 2014. He later became a co-host on WEEI Boston’s “The Greg Hill Show,” where his quick wit and insightful analysis resonate with listeners. His role as a football analyst extends to covering Boston’s sports teams, including the Patriots, Celtics, Bruins, and Red Sox. Wiggins also hosts his own podcast, further cementing his status as a media personality.
Other Media Appearances
Beyond ESPN Boston and WEEI Boston, Wiggins has appeared on shows like A&E’s “Flipping Boston,” where he joined a home renovation project, showcasing his versatility. He was also featured in the documentary “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez,” offering insights into his former teammate’s life.
Jermaine Wiggins Brockton: A Short-Lived Coaching Stint
In 2023, Jermaine Wiggins Brockton made headlines when he was named head coach of Brockton High School’s football team, succeeding the legendary Peter Colombo. As a Brockton native by association, Wiggins aimed to inspire young athletes, emphasizing academics, community service, and character development. However, his tenure was controversial due to a reported Jermaine Wiggins Brockton salary issue.
Initial rumors suggested Wiggins was offered a $100,000 salary, far exceeding the typical $15,000 stipend for high school coaches. Investigations into Brockton Schools’ $18 million budget deficit revealed that former superintendent Michael Thomas attempted to fund this salary with a Shannon Grant, intended for youth mentorship programs. Wiggins, unaware of the proposed amount, coached for the standard stipend but left after one season, citing union-related issues and a change in district leadership. His team recorded a 3-8 season, tying the program’s worst record in two decades.
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Jermaine Wiggins Family: A Personal Side
As a family man, Jermaine Wiggins family life is central to his identity. He is married , whose name is not widely publicized, reflecting his desire to keep personal matters private. Together, they have three children: Jermaine Wiggins kids, including Jermaine Wiggins daughter, Takida, and sons Jermaine Wiggins Jr. and Jaden.
Jermaine Wiggins Son: Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Jermaine Wiggins Jr., a standout athlete at Central Catholic High School, has followed his father’s football journey. A two-way player, he excelled as both a tight end and defensive lineman, earning All-MVC Division 1 honors. Recruited by the University of Arizona, he later transferred to the University of Massachusetts, where he plays as a redshirt sophomore defensive lineman. His commitment to football mirrors his father’s, though he aims to carve his own path, stating, “I want to be better than my dad.”
Jermaine Wiggins Daughter and Family Life
Jermaine Wiggins daughter, Takida, has pursued a career outside of sports, recently securing a position with Louis Vuitton after graduating from college. Wiggins’ pride in his children’s achievements underscores his role as a family man. While details about Jermaine Wiggins house are scarce, he resides in the Boston area, maintaining close ties to his community.
Jermaine Wiggins Net Worth, Salary & Career Earnings
Jermaine Wiggins’ net worth is estimated to be around $2 million to $3 million in 2025. Most of his wealth comes from his years in the NFL, followed by his successful career in broadcasting, especially with WEEI Boston.
During his NFL tenure, Wiggins played for several teams, including the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings. Though he wasn’t among the league’s highest earners, Jermaine Wiggins’ career earnings reportedly totaled close to $4 million. His most productive and lucrative seasons came during his time with the Vikings, where he was a standout tight end.
After retiring from football, Wiggins joined WEEI as a sports radio host. While Jermaine Wiggins’ WEEI salary hasn’t been disclosed publicly, similar personalities in Boston earn between $100,000 and $200,000 per year. His role on radio and TV, including occasional work with ESPN Boston, has helped maintain a steady income.
Wiggins also appears to invest in real estate. While details are private, it’s believed Jermaine Wiggins’ house is located in Brockton, Massachusetts, where he remains active in the local community.
Jermaine Wiggins Earnings & Net Worth Overview
Source | Details |
Estimated Net Worth | $2 – $3 million |
NFL Career Earnings | ~$4 million |
Teams Played For | Patriots, Vikings, Panthers, Jaguars |
WEEI Salary | $100,000 – $200,000/year (estimated) |
Post-NFL Work | Sports radio host, ESPN appearances |
Residence | Brockton, Massachusetts |
Family | Includes son Jermaine Wiggins Jr. |
Community Involvement and Legacy
Wiggins’ community involvement extends beyond coaching. He remains active with the Patriots Charitable Foundation and has hosted charity events, leveraging his platform as a Massachusetts sports figure. His journey from a Brockton native to a Super Bowl champion and sports radio host inspires young athletes, particularly in Massachusetts.
Conclusion
Jermaine Wiggins’ story is one of resilience, versatility, and impact. From his NFL career with the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings to his post-NFL career as a football analyst and media personality, he has left an indelible mark on sports and media. His brief but impactful stint and dedication to his family, including Jermaine Wiggins daughter, highlight his multifaceted legacy. As a family man and Massachusetts sports figure, Wiggins continues to inspire through his life after football.