Last Updated on October 20, 2026 by Tanos Potter
Deatrich Wise Jr. is an American professional football player who plays as a defensive end for the Washington Commanders in the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 26, 1994, Wise grew up in a family with a strong football tradition. He attended Hebron High School in Carrollton, Texas, before playing college football at the University of Arkansas. The New England Patriots selected him in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Beyond his football achievements, Deatrich Wise Jr. is a husband, father and the eldest of three brothers. His wife is Chanell Wise, and they have a son named Amir. His parents are Deatrich Wise Sr., a former professional football player and coach, and Sheila Wise, a retired U.S. Army nurse. His younger brothers, Daniel Wise and Solomon Wise, also pursued football careers. Together, the family established the Wise Up Foundation, which supports young people, communities and military veterans.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Girlfriend: Is He Dating Anyone?
Deatrich Wise Jr. is married to Chanell Wise, meaning the Washington Commanders defensive end has a wife rather than a girlfriend.
Their relationship has been publicly documented through official NFL biographies, the player’s personal website and the family’s charitable organization.
According to the New England Patriots’ official media guide, Wise married Chanell during the 2019 NFL offseason.
The couple established their married life while Wise was playing for the Patriots, having joined the franchise in 2017.
In October 2019, a travel interview published on Wise’s official website identified Chanell as his wife and reported that the couple were living in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
While his football career attracted national attention, Wise and his wife generally maintained a relatively private relationship away from entertainment media.
However, Chanell has also become involved in the family’s philanthropic activities, supporting the development of community programs through the Wise Up Foundation.
As of now, Chanell Wise remains Deatrich Wise Jr.’s publicly confirmed wife, with their marriage also acknowledged in the Washington Commanders’ March 2026 announcement of his contract extension.
Who Is Chanell Wise, Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Wife?
Chanell Wise is the wife of NFL defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. and the executive director of the Wise Up Foundation.
According to the foundation’s official website, Chanell oversees its community relationships and helps coordinate programs designed to provide educational opportunities and support underserved populations.
The foundation operates several initiatives focused on young athletes, education, workforce training and assistance for military veterans.
Chanell’s involvement demonstrates that the Wise family’s commitment to charitable work extends beyond the three brothers who originally established the organization.
The University of Arkansas also lists Deatrich and Chanell Wise among donors associated with university scholarship and student program endowments.
In university board documents from 2025, the couple’s names appeared in connection with the Deatrich and Chanell Wise NPHC Student Program Endowment and the Wise Up Endowed Scholarship.
Although Chanell has an established public role in philanthropy, details about her age, birthplace, parents and educational background have not been extensively documented in reliable publications.
Her name appears as “Chanell” on the Wise Up Foundation website and in earlier Patriots materials, while more recent Washington Commanders articles use the spelling “Channell.”
As of now, Chanell Wise is best known publicly as Deatrich Wise Jr.’s wife, the mother of their son Amir and an executive director involved in the family’s charitable activities.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Children: Does He Have Any Kids?
Yes. Deatrich Wise Jr. has one publicly confirmed child, a son named Amir Wise.
His son’s arrival was documented in the New England Patriots’ official media guide, which identified Amir as the child of Deatrich and Chanell Wise.
The Washington Commanders later confirmed that the couple welcomed Amir in 2023.
Becoming a father marked an important new chapter in Wise’s personal life, adding parenthood to his responsibilities as a professional athlete and community leader.
Although Wise has been open about the importance of family values, he has not widely publicized extensive information about his son’s private life.
Amir Wise: Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Son
Amir Wise is the son of Deatrich Wise Jr. and Chanell Wise.
He was born in 2023, according to official Washington Commanders reporting published in March 2025 and March 2026.
Amir belongs to a family with a long history of American football, including his father, grandfather and two uncles.
His grandfather, Deatrich Wise Sr., was drafted into the NFL and subsequently played professionally in other football leagues.
His father became a Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, while his uncles Daniel and Solomon also pursued professional football opportunities.
Despite these family connections, Amir is still a young child, and there is no basis for making assumptions about his future sporting interests.
His parents have generally kept information about his daily life outside extensive media coverage.
As of now, Amir Wise is the only child publicly confirmed in official NFL biographies of Deatrich Wise Jr. There has been no reliable public confirmation of additional children.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Parents: Meet His Father and Mother
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s parents are Deatrich Wise Sr. and Sheila Wise.
Both played significant roles in their son’s development, providing examples of discipline, education, athletics and service to others.
His father built a career in professional football and coaching, while his mother served as a nurse in the United States Army for 22 years.
According to a November 2024 article published by the New England Patriots, the couple taught their three sons the importance of using their opportunities to help other people.
These family values later inspired the brothers to create a charitable foundation supporting communities in Massachusetts and Texas.
Deatrich Wise Sr.: Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Father
Deatrich Wise Sr. is the father of Washington Commanders defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. and a former professional American football player and coach.
He played college football at Alabama State University before transferring to Jackson State University, where he developed into a talented defensive lineman.
His college performances attracted the attention of professional teams, and the Seattle Seahawks selected him in the ninth round of the 1988 NFL Draft.
He also spent time with the New Orleans Saints and played for the British Columbia Lions in the Canadian Football League.
Wise Sr. subsequently competed in the Arena Football League, including with the Tampa Bay Storm, where he became part of championship-winning teams.
After retiring from professional football, he moved into coaching, working with athletes at several levels of the sport.
His coaching experience included positions in college football, arena football and high school athletics.
In May 2017, the New England Patriots published an article about the influence of Wise Sr. on his eldest son’s development.
Deatrich Wise Jr. explained that his father had been one of his closest supporters and an important role model throughout his childhood.
His father’s guidance extended beyond football techniques, helping him understand the importance of personal responsibility and preparation for life outside the sport.
In a November 2024 Patriots feature, Wise Jr. recalled that his father regularly emphasized the responsibility people have to serve their communities.
This philosophy eventually became a central part of the Wise brothers’ charitable activities.
Wise Sr. remains involved in family ventures, including the Wise Up Foundation and the Wise family’s ownership of the Dallas Apex football organization.
Sheila Wise: Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Mother
Sheila Wise is the mother of Deatrich Wise Jr. and a retired military nurse who served in the United States Army for 22 years.
Her military career became an important influence on the family’s values, particularly its emphasis on discipline, compassion and service.
According to the New England Patriots, Sheila helped teach her children to set a positive example through their actions.
She encouraged them to support people in need and take responsibility for improving their communities.
Growing up, Deatrich and his brothers participated in activities such as community toy drives and serving meals to people experiencing hardship.
These experiences helped establish a family tradition of volunteering long before Deatrich became an NFL player.
Sheila’s military background also influenced the Wise Up Foundation’s commitment to honoring veterans.
One of the organization’s signature initiatives, Hot Meals for Vets, provides meals and recognition to people who have served in the United States military.
In the Patriots’ November 2024 feature, Wise Jr. described the importance of both his parents’ examples in shaping his approach to community service.
Although Sheila is known for her military service and charitable involvement, she generally maintains a private life outside these public activities.
As of now, Sheila Wise remains an important source of guidance for the Wise family and its philanthropic initiatives.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Siblings: Does He Have Brothers or Sisters?
Deatrich Wise Jr. has two younger brothers, Daniel Wise and Solomon Wise.
All three sons of Deatrich Wise Sr. and Sheila Wise pursued football careers, continuing the family’s connection to the sport.
The brothers are also co-founders of the Wise Up Foundation, where they work together on educational, athletic and community initiatives.
Their relationship is documented through official NFL media guides, university football biographies and the foundation’s website.
Daniel Wise: Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Younger Brother
Daniel Wise is the younger brother of Deatrich Wise Jr. and a former professional American football defensive lineman.
Born on January 16, 1996, Daniel followed his older brother into competitive football while attending Hebron High School in Carrollton, Texas.
He later played college football at the University of Kansas, where he established himself as one of the Jayhawks’ most productive defensive players.
During his college career, Daniel earned All-Big 12 recognition for his performances on the defensive line.
After completing his college career, he entered the professional football ranks as an undrafted free agent in 2019.
Daniel spent time with the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals before joining Washington in 2021.
He appeared in 17 regular-season NFL games for Washington, recording 11 combined tackles.
Daniel also spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs organization.
Interestingly, both Wise brothers have been members of Washington’s NFL franchise, although they joined during different periods.
In a March 2025 interview with the Washington Commanders, Deatrich explained that Daniel had shared positive impressions of the franchise and its supporters before his older brother signed with the team.
Outside football, Daniel has participated in charitable programs with his brothers through their family foundation.
Solomon Wise: Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Younger Brother
Solomon Wise is another younger brother of Deatrich Wise Jr. and a former college and professional football player.
Born on November 13, 1997, Solomon attended Hebron High School before continuing his football career at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).
At UTSA, he played primarily on the defensive line and at linebacker.
His university biography confirms that he is the son of Deatrich Wise Sr. and Sheila Wise and identifies Deatrich Jr. and Daniel as his brothers.
Solomon contributed to the UTSA Roadrunners during several seasons, recording tackles, sacks and other defensive statistics.
He later pursued professional football opportunities, including playing defensive end for the Philadelphia Stars in the United States Football League (USFL) in 2022.
Like his older brothers, Solomon has remained involved in activities designed to support young athletes.
He is identified as a co-founder of the Wise Up Foundation, helping organize programs that encourage education, mentorship and community involvement.
As of now, Daniel and Solomon Wise are Deatrich Wise Jr.’s two publicly confirmed siblings. Official family biographies identify the three Wise brothers without documenting any sisters.
The Wise Family’s Football Legacy
American football has been an important part of the Wise family’s identity for multiple generations.
The family’s sporting tradition began with Deatrich Wise Sr., whose career included college football, selection in the NFL Draft and professional experience in several football leagues.
His three sons subsequently developed their own careers in the sport.
Deatrich Wise Jr. attended the University of Arkansas and became an NFL defensive end, while Daniel Wise played at the University of Kansas and Solomon Wise competed at UTSA.
Both Deatrich Jr. and Daniel eventually reached the NFL, with Deatrich becoming a regular contributor and Super Bowl champion.
The brothers’ shared experiences also encouraged them to use their football backgrounds to help young athletes.
Rather than limiting their involvement to professional competition, they established football camps and community programs intended to create additional opportunities for future generations.
The Wise Up Foundation: How the Family Gives Back
One of the most meaningful aspects of Deatrich Wise Jr.’s family story is the Wise Up Foundation.
Established through the efforts of Deatrich Wise Jr. and his brothers Daniel and Solomon, the organization focuses on education, mentorship, community development and support for military veterans.
The family’s charitable work was already underway in 2018, and the foundation was registered as a Massachusetts nonprofit organization in 2023.
Its mission is summarized by the acronym P.U.S.H., representing the goals of providing educational resources, uniting communities, supporting students and student-athletes, and honoring America’s veterans.
The foundation operates several signature initiatives, including the Wise Big Man Camp, which provides football training and mentorship for young offensive and defensive linemen.
Another initiative, Bridge 2 Trades, introduces participants to skilled trade careers and provides access to practical training opportunities.
The family also organizes community block parties, educational events and programs recognizing military veterans.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s wife, Chanell, serves as executive director, while his parents continue to provide inspiration and guidance.
In September 2022, Wise received the New England Patriots’ Ron Burton Community Service Award in recognition of his extensive charitable activities.
He was also selected as the Patriots’ nominee for the 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.
These achievements reflect how the family’s commitment to service has become closely connected to Wise’s professional identity.
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Early Life and NFL Career
Deatrich Wise Jr. was born on July 26, 1994, and spent part of his childhood in Virginia before his family settled in Carrollton, Texas.
He attended Hebron High School, where he became a highly regarded defensive football prospect.
His performances attracted scholarship offers from several universities, including Arkansas, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, Arizona, Purdue and Wake Forest.
Wise ultimately chose the University of Arkansas, where he played for the Razorbacks from 2012 through 2016.
During his college career, he developed into a versatile defensive lineman and earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.
Following graduation, the New England Patriots selected him with the 131st overall pick in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
He made an immediate contribution during his rookie season, recording five sacks and helping the Patriots reach Super Bowl LII.
The following season, he became a Super Bowl champion when New England defeated the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LIII.
Wise continued developing into an important defensive contributor and eventually became one of the Patriots’ team captains.
His strongest statistical season came in 2022, when he recorded 7.5 sacks and 59 combined tackles.
In March 2025, Wise signed with the Washington Commanders after eight seasons in New England.
However, his first season in Washington was interrupted by a quadriceps injury sustained during the team’s second game of the 2025 campaign.
Despite the setback, the Commanders signed him to a contract extension in March 2026.
Washington subsequently activated Wise from the physically unable to perform list in October 2026 following his recovery.
His professional career has included a Super Bowl championship, team leadership responsibilities and recognition for his community service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deatrich Wise Jr.’s Family
Who is Deatrich Wise Jr.’s wife?
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s wife is Chanell Wise, who serves as executive director of the Wise Up Foundation. The couple married during the 2019 NFL offseason.
Does Deatrich Wise Jr. have a girlfriend?
No current girlfriend is publicly identified because Deatrich Wise Jr. is married to Chanell Wise. Their marriage is confirmed by official NFL records.
When did Deatrich Wise Jr. get married?
Deatrich Wise Jr. married Chanell Wise during the 2019 NFL offseason, according to the New England Patriots’ official media guide.
Does Deatrich Wise Jr. have children?
Yes. Deatrich Wise Jr. has a son named Amir Wise, whom he welcomed with his wife Chanell in 2023.
How many children does Deatrich Wise Jr. have?
Deatrich Wise Jr. has one publicly confirmed child, his son Amir. There is no reliable public confirmation of additional children.
Who are Deatrich Wise Jr.’s parents?
His parents are Deatrich Wise Sr., a former professional football player and coach, and Sheila Wise, a retired U.S. Army nurse.
Who is Deatrich Wise Jr.’s father?
Deatrich Wise Jr.’s father is Deatrich Wise Sr., who was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1988 NFL Draft and later played professional football in the CFL and Arena Football League.
Who is Deatrich Wise Jr.’s mother?
His mother is Sheila Wise, who served as a nurse in the United States Army for 22 years and helped inspire the family’s commitment to community service.
How many siblings does Deatrich Wise Jr. have?
Deatrich Wise Jr. has two younger brothers, Daniel Wise and Solomon Wise. Both also pursued football careers.
Is Daniel Wise related to Deatrich Wise Jr.?
Yes. Daniel Wise is Deatrich Wise Jr.’s younger brother. He played college football at Kansas and later appeared in NFL games for Washington.
Who is Solomon Wise?
Solomon Wise is the younger brother of Deatrich Wise Jr. He played college football at UTSA and later joined the Philadelphia Stars of the USFL.
What is the Wise Up Foundation?
The Wise Up Foundation is a family-led charitable organization founded by Deatrich Wise Jr. and his brothers. It supports education, youth athletics, workforce training, community development and military veterans.
Which NFL team does Deatrich Wise Jr. play for?
Deatrich Wise Jr. plays defensive end for the Washington Commanders. He joined Washington in 2025 after spending eight seasons with the New England Patriots.
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.
