Last Updated on October 30, 2026 by Tanos Potter
Ronnie Hickman Jr. is an American professional football player who plays as a safety for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 11, 2001, Hickman grew up in South Orange, New Jersey, before playing college football at Ohio State University.
Ronnie Hickman comes from a supportive family with strong connections to youth football and community service. His parents are Ronnie Hickman Sr. and Hanifah Crawley, who helped develop his athletic abilities from childhood. He also has four siblings, including an older brother named Kalief. Although Hickman has publicly discussed his parents and siblings, information about his girlfriend, children and current romantic relationship remains private.
Ronnie Hickman’s Girlfriend and Relationship Status
As of now, Ronnie Hickman Jr. has not publicly confirmed the identity of a girlfriend or romantic partner. The Cleveland Browns safety maintains a relatively private personal life, particularly regarding his dating history.
Despite gaining recognition for his performances in college football and the NFL, Hickman has rarely discussed romantic relationships during interviews with established sports publications.
His public appearances have primarily focused on his football career, family background, teammates and charitable work through his Fourteen21 Cares foundation.
There is no sufficiently verified public information identifying a current girlfriend, fiancée or wife.
Although some online biographies have speculated about his relationship status, those claims have not been established through reliable firsthand statements.
Consequently, it remains unclear whether Hickman is single or involved in a relationship that he prefers to keep private.
Is Ronnie Hickman Married?
As of now, there is no verified public information confirming that Ronnie Hickman Jr. is married.
The NFL defensive back has not publicly announced a wedding, and his official Cleveland Browns and Ohio State biographies do not identify a spouse.
Without reliable confirmation, claims that Hickman has a wife should remain unconfirmed.
Does Ronnie Hickman Have Children?
As of now, there is no verified public information confirming that Ronnie Hickman Jr. has children.
The Cleveland Browns safety has not publicly announced becoming a father, and his official NFL and college football biographies do not identify any sons or daughters.
Although Hickman is actively involved in charitable initiatives supporting young people, those activities do not establish that he has children of his own.
His Fourteen21 Cares foundation focuses on youth development, education, sports, health awareness and community support.
While the organization frequently works with children and families, there is no reliable public information establishing that Hickman is a parent.
Ronnie Hickman’s Parents
Ronnie Hickman Jr. was born to Ronnie Hickman Sr. and Hanifah Crawley, who raised him in New Jersey.
Both parents have been actively involved in youth sports, particularly through the Maplewood-South Orange Packers football organization.
Their identities are confirmed in Hickman’s official Ohio State University athletics biography.
Ronnie Hickman’s Father: Ronnie Hickman Sr.
Ronnie Hickman’s father is Ronnie Hickman Sr., who played an important role in introducing his son to American football and supporting his athletic development.
According to a June 2022 report published by Essex News Daily, Ronnie Sr. served as commissioner of the Maplewood-South Orange Packers youth football organization in New Jersey.
The program provided young athletes with opportunities to participate in organized football and develop their skills.
Hickman Jr. began playing football with the organization during childhood, receiving guidance from coaches and family members.
His father also gave him the nickname “Rocket,” which eventually became widely associated with his football career.
During a November 2022 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Hickman explained that the nickname originated when he was a baby.
He recalled that he frequently attempted to move quickly and take off while crawling, prompting his father to begin calling him Rocket.
Although many people later assumed the nickname referred to his speed on the football field, Hickman clarified that his father had created it before he could properly run.
The nickname remained part of his identity throughout childhood, high school and college football.
Ronnie Sr. also attended his son’s sporting activities and helped him prepare for games.
In the same November 2022 interview, Hickman discussed how his father and older brother worked together to support him during childhood.
Both helped him with equipment and preparation before football games.
His father’s involvement continued when Hickman developed into a highly regarded prospect at DePaul Catholic High School.
During his recruitment by major college football programs, Ronnie Sr. accompanied his son on university visits.
In 2018, Hickman and his parents visited Ohio State University, where they met coaches and evaluated the program.
Hickman eventually committed to Ohio State, fulfilling a childhood ambition of representing the Buckeyes.
Following his son’s transition to professional football, Ronnie Sr. became actively involved in the family’s charitable organization, Fourteen21 Cares.
According to the foundation’s official website, he serves as treasurer and assists with program development.
His responsibilities include supporting initiatives focused on youth development, community engagement and assistance for people in need.
Ronnie Sr. also participated in a community donation event held in Irvington, New Jersey, in March 2025.
The event involved distributing hygiene products, clothing and meals to residents.
His continued involvement demonstrates the family’s commitment to using sports and community programs to support young people.
Ronnie Hickman’s Mother: Hanifah Crawley
Ronnie Hickman’s mother is Hanifah Crawley, who has been one of the most important supporters of his football career.
Her identity is confirmed in Ohio State University’s official athletics records and local reporting about Hickman’s childhood in New Jersey.
Hanifah became actively involved in youth football through the Maplewood-South Orange Packers organization.
According to Essex News Daily, she previously served as president of the organization while Ronnie Sr. held the position of commissioner.
Their involvement meant that organized football and community activities were important parts of Hickman’s upbringing.
Hanifah helped provide an environment where her son could develop his athletic abilities while learning about teamwork, responsibility and leadership.
Her support continued as Hickman began attracting attention from college football programs.
In 2018, she accompanied him during visits to Ohio State, where the family evaluated educational and sporting opportunities.
Hickman subsequently joined the Buckeyes in 2019 and developed into one of the team’s leading defensive players.
During a November 2022 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Hickman spoke affectionately about family gatherings and his mother’s cooking.
He identified her macaroni and cheese as one of his favorite dishes during Thanksgiving celebrations.
The interview also highlighted his family’s tradition of gathering together despite having siblings from different parental relationships.
Beyond supporting her son’s football career, Hanifah has participated in community service initiatives.
She serves as program director of Fourteen21 Cares, the charitable foundation established by Hickman and his family.
According to the organization’s official website, the foundation supports youth development through sports, arts, education and mentorship.
It also provides assistance to vulnerable community members through donation drives and other charitable activities.
In March 2025, Hanifah helped oversee a community event in Irvington that distributed hygiene supplies and meals.
Her continued involvement reflects the family’s commitment to helping young people and giving back to the New Jersey communities that supported Hickman’s development.
Ronnie Hickman’s Siblings
Ronnie Hickman Jr. has four siblings: two brothers and two sisters.
He personally confirmed this information during an interview with journalist Lori Schmidt of The Columbus Dispatch, published on November 11, 2022.
Hickman explained that his two brothers were connected through his mother’s side of the family, while his two sisters were on his father’s side.
Although not all his siblings share both biological parents, he emphasized that the family treats everyone equally and regularly gathers for celebrations.
He also identified himself as the youngest child in the family.
Kalief: Ronnie Hickman’s Older Brother
Kalief is Ronnie Hickman’s older brother and one of the family members who influenced his childhood.
During his November 2022 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Hickman explained that Kalief was approximately 14 or 15 years older than him.
He recalled that his brother was around 34 or 35 years old when the interview took place.
Kalief was affectionately known by several nicknames within the family, including Big Bear and Big Baby.
Despite their age difference, the brothers developed a close relationship.
Hickman described Kalief as someone who served almost like a second father or trusted older mentor.
During childhood, Kalief regularly helped him prepare for football games.
He made sure Ronnie had appropriate cleats and equipment and encouraged him to look confident when entering the field.
Kalief also influenced Hickman’s interest in video games.
Ronnie recalled watching his older brother play games before eventually learning to use a controller himself.
He described following Kalief’s example as an important part of his childhood.
Although their relationship is publicly documented, Kalief’s full legal name, professional occupation and additional personal details have not been reliably established.
Ronnie Hickman’s Other Brother
Ronnie Hickman has another brother on his mother’s side of the family.
He confirmed this during his November 2022 interview when discussing the number of siblings in his household.
However, the interview did not establish his other brother’s name or provide additional personal information.
Hickman emphasized that all his siblings maintained close relationships, regardless of whether they shared both biological parents.
As of now, reliable public sources do not provide enough information to identify his other brother’s education, occupation or personal relationships.
Ronnie Hickman’s Two Sisters
Ronnie Hickman has two sisters on his father’s side of the family.
Their existence is confirmed through Hickman’s firsthand interview with The Columbus Dispatch.
Although he did not publicly identify the sisters by name, he explained that his family maintained a close bond and frequently spent time together.
He described family gatherings as important occasions when siblings from different parental relationships came together.
Hickman emphasized that everyone was treated as part of the same family.
However, the identities, ages, educational backgrounds and occupations of his sisters have not been reliably documented in established public sources.
Ronnie Hickman’s Family Foundation: Fourteen21 Cares
One of the clearest examples of the Hickman family’s close relationship is their involvement in Fourteen21 Cares, a charitable organization established to support young people and underserved communities.
According to the foundation’s official website, Hickman and his family began developing the organization while he was attending Ohio State University.
The foundation focuses on youth development, sports participation, arts, education, mentorship and health awareness.
Ronnie Hickman Jr. serves as founder, while his mother, Hanifah Crawley, is program director.
His father, Ronnie Hickman Sr., serves as treasurer and supports program development.
During his November 2022 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Hickman explained that giving back was an important value he learned from his upbringing.
He discussed plans to help people who lacked adequate winter clothing and other essential supplies.
He also recalled participating in a backpack donation initiative for students preparing to return to school.
The family’s charitable efforts continued after Hickman entered the NFL.
In March 2025, Fourteen21 Cares partnered with Family Ties in Irvington, New Jersey, to organize a community outreach event.
The organizations collected and distributed hygiene products, including soap, toothpaste, washcloths and socks.
They also provided meals to people attending the event.
The foundation had previously supported students through a back-to-school backpack giveaway.
These activities demonstrate how Hickman and his parents have maintained their connection to the communities where he grew up.
How Ronnie Hickman’s Family Influenced His Football Career
Ronnie Hickman’s football journey began in South Orange, New Jersey, where his parents were actively involved in youth sports.
He initially participated in organized football with the Maplewood-South Orange Packers.
His family’s involvement in the organization helped introduce him to competitive football at an early age.
During childhood, Hickman also participated in basketball and lacrosse.
He eventually attended DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne, New Jersey, where he developed into an outstanding two-sport athlete.
As a football player, Hickman competed at wide receiver and safety, demonstrating his versatility.
During his junior season, he recorded 44 receptions for 809 yards and 10 touchdowns while contributing 44 tackles and two interceptions on defense.
He also helped DePaul Catholic win the New Jersey Non-Public Group III state championship in 2017.
Beyond football, Hickman earned All-American recognition in lacrosse.
He initially considered playing college lacrosse at Rutgers University before deciding to concentrate on football.
His performances attracted scholarship offers from several major college football programs.
After considering his options with his family, Hickman committed to Ohio State University in April 2018.
He joined the Buckeyes in 2019 and gradually developed into an important member of their defensive secondary.
During the 2021 season, Hickman led Ohio State with 100 tackles and recorded two interceptions.
His performances earned All-Big Ten recognition.
He continued playing an important role in 2022, recording 53 tackles and earning Second-Team All-American honors from the Associated Press.
In December 2022, Hickman graduated from Ohio State with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family sciences.
After completing his college football career, he entered the 2023 NFL Draft but was not selected.
However, the Cleveland Browns signed him as an undrafted free agent on May 12, 2023.
Despite beginning his professional career without being drafted, Hickman impressed Cleveland’s coaching staff during training camp.
He earned a place on the team’s initial 53-man roster and made his NFL debut during the 2023 season.
On December 28, 2023, Hickman recorded his first NFL interception against the New York Jets and returned it 30 yards for a touchdown.
He continued developing as a safety during the following seasons.
In 2025, Hickman started all 17 regular-season games for Cleveland and recorded more than 100 tackles, two interceptions and seven passes defended.
His performances helped establish him as a regular member of the Browns’ defense.
In June 2026, Hickman signed his restricted free agent tender to remain with Cleveland.
Throughout his professional journey, his family has continued supporting his career while working alongside him through their charitable foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ronnie Hickman’s Family
Who is Ronnie Hickman’s girlfriend?
As of now, Ronnie Hickman Jr. has not publicly confirmed the identity of a girlfriend. His current romantic relationship status remains private.
Is Ronnie Hickman married?
There is no verified public information confirming that Ronnie Hickman Jr. is married or has a wife.
Does Ronnie Hickman have children?
There is no verified public information establishing that Ronnie Hickman Jr. has any children.
Who is Ronnie Hickman’s father?
His father is Ronnie Hickman Sr., who previously served as commissioner of the Maplewood-South Orange Packers youth football organization and now helps manage Fourteen21 Cares.
Who is Ronnie Hickman’s mother?
His mother is Hanifah Crawley, who previously served as president of the Maplewood-South Orange Packers youth football organization and serves as program director of Fourteen21 Cares.
How many siblings does Ronnie Hickman have?
Ronnie Hickman has four siblings: two brothers and two sisters. He confirmed their existence during a November 2022 interview with The Columbus Dispatch.
Who is Ronnie Hickman’s older brother?
His older brother is Kalief, who helped guide his early football development and introduced him to video games. Kalief is approximately 14 or 15 years older than Ronnie.
Does Ronnie Hickman have sisters?
Yes. Ronnie Hickman has two sisters on his father’s side of the family. Their individual names have not been reliably disclosed.
Is Ronnie Hickman the youngest sibling?
Yes. Ronnie Hickman described himself as the youngest child in his family during a November 2022 interview.
Why is Ronnie Hickman called Rocket?
His father gave him the nickname Rocket when he was a baby because he frequently attempted to move and take off quickly while crawling.
Where is Ronnie Hickman’s family from?
Ronnie Hickman grew up in South Orange, New Jersey, where his family became involved in youth sports and community development.
What is Ronnie Hickman’s family foundation?
Fourteen21 Cares is a charitable organization established by Ronnie Hickman and his family to support youth development, sports, education, health awareness and community assistance.
Which NFL team does Ronnie Hickman play for?
Ronnie Hickman Jr. plays as a safety for the Cleveland Browns, who signed him as an undrafted free agent following the 2023 NFL Draft.
Tanos Potter is a sports journalist and NFL analyst dedicated to bringing fans closer to the gridiron through deep tactical analysis and roster coverage. He breaks down offensive and defensive schemes, quarterback performance, trade moves, and top Draft prospects. Tracking action across both the AFC and NFC, Tanos translates complex playbooks and statistics into engaging, actionable insights for football enthusiasts.
