Last Updated on October 21, 2026 by Mariah Miranda
Ben Skowronek’s family includes his wife, Brianna Stroup Skowronek, his parents David and Jodi Skowronek, and his two older siblings, Matt and Emily Skowronek. Born on June 27, 1997, Bennett William Skowronek is an American professional football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL).
Raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Skowronek comes from a family with a remarkable sporting background. His older brother played college football at Indiana University, his father competed in college basketball, and his extended relatives include former NFL quarterback Trent Green and Olympic gymnast Courtney Kupets.
Beyond his football achievements, Skowronek has also experienced an important personal milestone, marrying former Northwestern University lacrosse player Brianna Stroup in March 2025.
Here is everything publicly known about Ben Skowronek’s wife, children, parents, and siblings, including his family’s athletic connections and influence on his NFL career.
Ben Skowronek’s Wife: Who Is Brianna Stroup?
Brianna Stroup Skowronek is Ben Skowronek’s wife. The couple married on March 1, 2025, during a beachfront wedding ceremony at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Brianna is a former collegiate lacrosse player who attended Northwestern University, where she first met her future husband.
Their relationship developed from a college friendship into a romance before they became engaged in May 2023.
According to an exclusive interview published by People magazine on March 6, 2025, the couple celebrated their wedding with approximately 130 relatives and friends.
Unlike several NFL players whose romantic relationships remain private, Skowronek and Brianna publicly shared details about their wedding and their excitement about building a future together.
As of now, Ben Skowronek and Brianna Stroup remain publicly identified as a married couple, with no verified reports of a separation or divorce.
Who Is Brianna Stroup Skowronek?
Brianna Stroup is a Canadian former college lacrosse player from Port Coquitlam, British Columbia.
Before attending Northwestern University, she established herself as a talented lacrosse player in Canada.
According to Northwestern Athletics, Brianna earned provincial recognition in both field lacrosse and box lacrosse during her high school years.
She was named Port Coquitlam field lacrosse MVP in 2015 and 2016 and previously earned box lacrosse MVP honors.
Her performances helped her secure an opportunity to compete at Northwestern University in Illinois.
During the 2018 college lacrosse season, Brianna appeared in eight games and recorded six goals.
She continued contributing during the 2019 season, appearing in 17 games and earning Academic All-Big Ten recognition.
Her athletic background created an important connection with Ben, who was playing college football at Northwestern during the same period.
Although Brianna has become publicly recognized through their marriage, she has also maintained personal interests outside professional football.
How Did Ben Skowronek and Brianna Stroup Meet?
Ben Skowronek and Brianna Stroup first met in 2018 while attending Northwestern University.
At the time, Ben was playing football for the Northwestern Wildcats, while Brianna competed on the university’s women’s lacrosse team.
According to People magazine, one of their earliest connections was that both athletes had worn jersey number 88 during their college careers.
Although they knew each other during university, their romantic relationship developed later.
The couple recalled that their connection became romantic at a friend’s house in Malibu, California, on New Year’s Eve in 2021.
Their relationship grew during Skowronek’s early years with the Los Angeles Rams.
After the Rams won Super Bowl LVI in February 2022, the couple traveled to Cabo San Lucas for their first vacation together.
The destination became particularly meaningful to them and later influenced their wedding plans.
When Did Ben Skowronek Get Engaged?
Ben Skowronek proposed to Brianna Stroup in May 2023.
The proposal took place at Point Dume in Malibu, California, a scenic location overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Brianna accepted, and the couple began planning their wedding.
Although they initially considered holding the ceremony in California, their plans changed after Skowronek joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024.
They eventually selected Cabo San Lucas, a destination associated with their first vacation as a couple.
Ben Skowronek and Brianna Stroup’s Wedding
Ben Skowronek and Brianna Stroup married on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
The wedding celebration lasted several days, beginning with a pool gathering on February 27 and a welcome party on February 28.
Approximately 130 family members and friends attended the wedding.
Brianna wore a Vera Wang wedding gown, while Ben wore a custom-designed suit.
The ceremony was officiated by Skowronek’s cousin, Steven Koressel, making the occasion particularly meaningful to the family.
During the reception, the couple shared their first dance to Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One.”
The festivities included a four-tier wedding cake, special dining arrangements, and fireworks.
Speaking to People magazine, Skowronek praised Brianna’s kindness, patience, and consistent support.
Both described marriage as an opportunity to support one another through the challenges and achievements of life.
Ben Skowronek’s Children: Does He Have Any Kids?
As of now, Ben Skowronek has no publicly confirmed children. The Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver and his wife, Brianna, have not made a verified public announcement of the birth or adoption of a son or daughter.
However, the couple has publicly discussed the possibility of starting a family in the future.
During their March 2025 wedding interview with People magazine, Brianna expressed excitement about building a life with Ben.
She mentioned traveling, settling into a home, and potentially starting a family as experiences they hoped to share.
Nevertheless, neither spouse has publicly confirmed becoming a parent.
For this reason, it would be inaccurate to claim that the couple already has children without further verification.
Ben Skowronek’s Parents: Meet David and Jodi Skowronek
Ben Skowronek’s parents are David Skowronek and Jodi Skowronek. They raised their three children in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where athletics became an important part of family life.
Both parents are identified in Ben’s official Northwestern University football biography.
They have supported his athletic ambitions since childhood, frequently attending football games and celebrating his achievements.
In February 2022, David and Jodi participated in an interview with Fort Wayne television station WPTA, discussing their son’s journey to Super Bowl LVI.
Ben Skowronek’s Father: David Skowronek
David “Dave” Skowronek is Ben Skowronek’s father and one of the most important influences on his football career.
David grew up in Connellsville, Pennsylvania, a community approximately 50 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.
His Pennsylvania upbringing helped establish the strong work ethic and competitive attitude that he later passed on to his children.
David also has an athletic background, having played college basketball.
According to reporting by the Chicago Sun-Times and Notre Dame’s Rivals coverage, his experience in competitive sports contributed to the family’s interest in athletics.
Professionally, David worked in communications for Marathon Petroleum in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He has also maintained a strong connection to his hometown and its sporting traditions.
How David Skowronek Inspired His Son
David encouraged Ben’s involvement in sports from an early age.
In a February 2022 interview with WPTA, David and Jodi recalled that Ben became interested in football when he was approximately three years old.
Watching his older brother Matt participate in football helped spark that interest.
David recognized his youngest son’s determination and encouraged him to continue developing his abilities.
He also emphasized discipline, humility, and the importance of being coachable.
During Ben’s college football career, David regularly attended games and provided encouragement.
In October 2020, David and Jodi traveled to Pittsburgh to watch Notre Dame face the University of Pittsburgh.
Ben delivered an outstanding performance, catching two touchdown passes and recording 107 receiving yards.
David expressed pride in his son’s performance while explaining that the family had always believed in his abilities.
In July 2025, Ben also discussed his father’s Western Pennsylvania roots during an interview with Steelers Now.
He explained that his family’s blue-collar background helped him identify with Pittsburgh’s football culture.
Ben Skowronek’s Mother: Jodi Skowronek
Jodi Skowronek is Ben Skowronek’s mother and another significant influence on his upbringing.
Jodi has worked in real estate in Fort Wayne, Indiana, including with North Eastern Group Realty.
Her professional background includes residential real estate and property-related services.
Alongside David, she raised Ben and his older siblings in a household where education, hard work, and athletics were important values.
During a February 2022 interview with WPTA, Jodi recalled how Ben’s interest in football developed when he was very young.
She explained that he enjoyed wearing football equipment after watching his older brother play.
As Ben advanced through youth football and high school, Jodi remained involved in supporting his activities.
Her encouragement continued throughout his college career at Northwestern and Notre Dame.
Jodi also attended important games during his NFL career, including the Rams’ Super Bowl-winning season.
Ben has publicly expressed appreciation for both parents, acknowledging that their support remained consistent regardless of his football achievements.
Ben Skowronek’s Siblings: Meet Matt and Emily Skowronek
Ben Skowronek has two older siblings: Matt Skowronek and Emily Skowronek. He is the youngest of David and Jodi Skowronek’s three children.
Both siblings were identified in the family’s public records and their grandfather Robert Skowronek’s obituary published in 2017.
Matt followed an athletic path and played college football, while Emily has maintained a more private life.
Matt Skowronek: Ben Skowronek’s Older Brother
Matthew David “Matt” Skowronek is Ben Skowronek’s older brother.
Matt was born on April 28, 1995, according to his official Indiana University football biography.
Like Ben, he grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and attended Homestead High School.
During high school, Matt played football under head coach Chad Zolman.
He demonstrated versatility by competing at quarterback and safety.
During his senior season, he passed for 1,530 yards, rushed for 300 yards, and accounted for 21 touchdowns.
After graduating from high school, Matt enrolled at Indiana University.
He joined the Indiana Hoosiers football program as a walk-on and played safety.
Matt redshirted in 2013 and remained on the team’s roster during the 2014 season.
Although he did not establish a professional NFL career, his experiences in college football contributed to the family’s athletic background.
How Matt Skowronek Influenced Ben
Matt played a particularly important role in developing Ben’s early interest in football.
According to the family’s WPTA interview, Ben frequently watched his older brother participate in football activities.
As a young child, Ben became fascinated by the sport and wanted to imitate the older players.
He even served as a water boy around his brother’s football team.
Growing up with an older brother who played competitively provided opportunities for Ben to learn about training, teamwork, and the responsibilities associated with football.
Matt’s example helped establish the sporting interests that Ben later pursued at Homestead High School, Northwestern, Notre Dame, and eventually the NFL.
Emily Skowronek: Ben Skowronek’s Older Sister
Emily Skowronek, also known as Emily Drazer, is Ben Skowronek’s older sister.
She grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, alongside her brothers Matt and Ben.
Emily’s identity as a family member is confirmed by public family records, including the obituary of their paternal grandfather, Robert Skowronek.
She married Morgan Drazer in July 2021, according to family-related biographical reporting.
Following her marriage, she has also been identified as Emily Skowronek-Drazer.
Unlike her brothers, who pursued college football, Emily has maintained a relatively private public profile.
Although some biographical websites have mentioned professional interests in business and education, detailed information about her current occupation has not been independently verified.
As of now, Emily remains one of Ben’s two publicly identified siblings.
Ben Skowronek’s Uncle: Former NFL Quarterback Trent Green
One of the most recognizable members of Ben Skowronek’s extended family is former NFL quarterback Trent Green.
Green is Skowronek’s uncle by marriage and played an important role in encouraging his interest in professional football.
Trent Green played college football at Indiana University before beginning a lengthy NFL career.
He represented several organizations, including the Washington franchise, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, and Miami Dolphins.
Green earned two Pro Bowl selections and was a member of the Rams organization that won Super Bowl XXXIV.
During Ben’s childhood, Green provided an opportunity to experience the NFL environment firsthand.
Ben attended professional games, spent time around NFL facilities, and met players through his uncle.
In an interview published by Notre Dame’s Rivals coverage, Skowronek explained that watching Green play helped him believe that reaching the NFL was possible.
Interestingly, Skowronek later began his professional career with the Rams, the same franchise Green had represented.
When Los Angeles selected Ben in the 2021 NFL Draft, Green publicly congratulated his nephew and encouraged him to make the most of the opportunity.
Ben Skowronek’s Other Famous Relatives
Ben Skowronek’s family also includes several relatives with significant achievements in sports.
Johnny Lujack: Notre Dame Heisman Trophy Winner
Johnny Lujack, the legendary Notre Dame quarterback who won the 1947 Heisman Trophy, was a distant relative of Ben Skowronek.
According to a September 2020 Chicago Sun-Times report, Lujack’s mother, Alice Skowronek, was the sister of Ben’s great-grandfather Stanley Skowronek.
The connection linked the families through their shared roots in western Pennsylvania.
The relationship became particularly interesting when Ben transferred to Notre Dame for the 2020 season.
His father, David, contacted Lujack to share the news that another member of the extended family would be playing football for the Fighting Irish.
Lujack’s achievements provided another example of the family’s sporting history.
Courtney Kupets: Olympic Gymnast
Courtney Kupets Carter, a former American Olympic gymnast, is another member of Skowronek’s extended family.
Kupets competed for the United States at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, winning a silver medal in the team competition and a bronze medal on uneven bars.
She later enjoyed an outstanding collegiate gymnastics career at the University of Georgia.
Her accomplishments further demonstrate the athletic achievements associated with the wider Skowronek family.
How Ben Skowronek’s Family Influenced His Football Career
Ben Skowronek grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where athletics were a regular part of family life.
His father’s background in basketball, his older brother’s football career, and his connection to Trent Green helped establish an environment where sports were highly valued.
Ben attended Homestead High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball.
During his high school football career, he recorded 133 receptions for 2,181 yards and 26 touchdowns.
He also helped Homestead win the Indiana Class 4A basketball state championship in 2015.
After graduating, Skowronek enrolled at Northwestern University in 2016.
He spent four seasons with the Wildcats, recording 110 receptions for 1,417 yards and eight touchdowns.
In 2020, he transferred to the University of Notre Dame for his final college football season.
With the Fighting Irish, he recorded 29 receptions for 439 yards and five touchdowns.
His combination of size, physical strength, and blocking ability attracted attention from NFL teams.
In April 2021, the Los Angeles Rams selected Skowronek in the seventh round of the NFL Draft with the 249th overall pick.
He became part of the Rams team that defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI in February 2022.
After three seasons in Los Angeles and a brief period with the Houston Texans organization, Skowronek joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024.
His move to Pittsburgh was especially meaningful because of his father’s roots in western Pennsylvania.
During the 2025 season, Skowronek established himself as an important special teams contributor and earned his first Pro Bowl selection.
Throughout his professional journey, the encouragement of his wife, parents, and siblings has remained an important part of his life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Skowronek’s Family
Who is Ben Skowronek’s girlfriend?
Ben Skowronek is married to former Northwestern University lacrosse player Brianna Stroup. The couple began their romantic relationship after meeting in college and married in March 2025.
Who is Ben Skowronek’s wife?
His wife is Brianna Stroup Skowronek, a Canadian former collegiate lacrosse player from Port Coquitlam, British Columbia.
When did Ben Skowronek get married?
Ben Skowronek married Brianna Stroup on March 1, 2025, at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Does Ben Skowronek have children?
As of now, Ben Skowronek has no publicly confirmed children. He and his wife have discussed the possibility of starting a family in the future.
Who are Ben Skowronek’s parents?
Ben Skowronek’s parents are David “Dave” Skowronek and Jodi Skowronek. They raised him and his two older siblings in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Who is Ben Skowronek’s father?
His father is David Skowronek, a Connellsville, Pennsylvania, native and former college basketball player who worked in communications for Marathon Petroleum.
Who is Ben Skowronek’s mother?
His mother is Jodi Skowronek, who has worked in real estate in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and has supported his football career since childhood.
How many siblings does Ben Skowronek have?
Ben Skowronek has two older siblings: his brother Matt Skowronek and sister Emily Skowronek Drazer.
Who is Ben Skowronek’s brother?
His older brother is Matthew David “Matt” Skowronek, a former Indiana University football player who competed as a safety.
Who is Ben Skowronek’s sister?
His older sister is Emily Skowronek, also known as Emily Drazer following her marriage to Morgan Drazer in 2021.
Is Ben Skowronek related to Trent Green?
Yes. Former NFL quarterback Trent Green is Ben Skowronek’s uncle by marriage. Green helped inspire his interest in professional football.
Is Ben Skowronek related to Johnny Lujack?
Yes. Ben Skowronek is a distant relative of former Notre Dame quarterback Johnny Lujack, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1947.
Where is Ben Skowronek’s family from?
Ben Skowronek grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His father’s family has longstanding roots in Connellsville, Pennsylvania.
What NFL team does Ben Skowronek play for?
Ben Skowronek plays wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He previously played for the Los Angeles Rams and was part of their Super Bowl LVI championship team.
Mariah Miranda is a dedicated sports journalist specializing in comprehensive NFL coverage, playbook strategy, and team analytics. From offseason Draft planning and free-agency moves to weekly matchup breakdowns and playoff pushes, she delivers clear, data-driven analysis of every division in the league. Driven by a deep understanding of football tactics and locker-room dynamics, Mariah brings fans closer to the gridiron with sharp commentary and player updates.
