Rayshawn Jenkins Family: Wife, Children, Parents, and Siblings

Last Updated on October 22, 2026 by Mariah Miranda

Rayshawn Jenkins is an American professional football safety known for his NFL career and his remarkable family background. Born on January 25, 1994, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Jenkins grew up in a large family and overcame considerable challenges before reaching professional football.

Beyond his football career, fans are curious about Rayshawn Jenkins’ wife, children, parents, and siblings. The NFL defensive back is married to Emily Jenkins, and the couple has two children. He is also one of 18 children in his extended family.

Who Is Rayshawn Jenkins’ Wife?

Rayshawn Jenkins’ wife is Emily Jenkins, formerly Emily Lillard. The couple developed their relationship while attending the University of Miami and later married in 2024.

Emily grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, and was a talented soccer goalkeeper. She initially attended the University of Arkansas before transferring to the University of Miami, where she continued her collegiate soccer career.

Rayshawn and Emily met during their university years in 2012. Their relationship began as a friendship before developing into a romance. Their shared experiences as college athletes helped them establish a strong connection.

In 2024, the couple celebrated their wedding in Florida. Sports Illustrated reported that they exchanged vows aboard a yacht.

Emily has also established herself professionally outside sports. She is a real estate entrepreneur involved in property investment, renovation, vacation rentals, and other real estate ventures.

As of now, Emily Jenkins is publicly identified as Rayshawn Jenkins’ wife rather than his girlfriend.

How Many Children Does Rayshawn Jenkins Have?

Rayshawn Jenkins has two publicly documented children: a son named Ace and a daughter named Blaize. He shares both children with his wife, Emily.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Son, Ace

Ace is Rayshawn Jenkins’ eldest publicly known child. He was born around 2016, before his father began his professional NFL career.

In a 2017 interview published by the Los Angeles Chargers, Jenkins described becoming a father as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.

He explained that providing for his son gave him additional motivation to succeed professionally and remain dedicated to football.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Daughter, Blaize

Rayshawn Jenkins’ daughter, Blaize, was born in early 2019.

The Los Angeles Chargers publicly introduced Blaize in their Father’s Day coverage in June 2019, identifying Jenkins as the father of Ace and Blaize.

In that feature, Jenkins discussed the importance of being a positive male role model for both his son and daughter. He emphasized love, leadership, and the responsibilities of fatherhood.

As of now, Ace and Blaize are the two children publicly confirmed through team publications and interviews featuring the Jenkins family.

Who Are Rayshawn Jenkins’ Parents?

Rayshawn Jenkins’ parents are Charles Jenkins and Terry Byrd. Both played important roles in his upbringing in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Father: Charles Jenkins

Charles Jenkins is Rayshawn Jenkins’ father. He helped raise a large family and encouraged his children’s participation in athletics.

According to a 2013 Miami Herald profile, Charles operated a tattoo business and a T-shirt business serving customers in the Tampa Bay area.

He supported his children’s sporting ambitions, including Rayshawn’s football career and the athletic development of several of his siblings.

Charles also worked as a cook during Rayshawn’s childhood and was involved in youth football.

When Rayshawn was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the accomplishment was an emotional moment for his father and other family members.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Mother: Terry Byrd

Terry Byrd is Rayshawn Jenkins’ mother. She raised her children through difficult circumstances in St. Petersburg.

Jenkins has spoken openly about the challenges of his childhood, including family instability, financial difficulties, and periods when he lived with relatives.

His parents separated while he was young. Nevertheless, both remained part of his life.

In a 2018 profile written by journalist Jeff Pearlman, Jenkins discussed his difficult upbringing while also expressing love for his mother and explaining that he maintained contact with both parents.

His experiences growing up helped shape his determination to build a different future for himself and his own children.

How Many Siblings Does Rayshawn Jenkins Have?

Rayshawn Jenkins has 17 siblings, making him one of 18 children in his extended family.

The Los Angeles Chargers confirmed this family size in a 2017 feature, noting that Jenkins was the sixth-oldest child in a family consisting of 11 girls and seven boys.

His siblings include brothers and sisters from different parental relationships.

Names of Rayshawn Jenkins’ Siblings

During a 2018 interview with journalist Jeff Pearlman, Jenkins identified his siblings by name.

• Shomira
• Charles
• Ashanti
• Chaniece
• Arkeith
• Charlisa
• Elise
• Keyon
• Shay
• Jontae
• Alexus
• Jaleyah
• Kevary
• Ronald
• Soraya
• Caira
• Camora

Growing up with so many siblings created a competitive environment that Jenkins has credited with influencing his personality and athletic development.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Sister, Charlisa

Charlisa Jenkins is one of Rayshawn’s sisters and is known for her basketball background.

She played basketball at Admiral Farragut Academy before continuing her athletic career at Hampton University.

In an interview published by the Miami Herald, Charlisa explained that Rayshawn’s decision to pursue higher education motivated her to attend college as well.

She regarded her brother’s achievements as an example of what hard work could accomplish.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Brother, Keyon

Keyon Jenkins is another sibling with a documented athletic background.

According to the Chargers’ official player biography, Keyon played college football at Quincy University in Illinois.

Another brother, Kevary, was recognized for his youth football achievements while growing up in Florida.

Several members of the Jenkins family participated in organized sports, demonstrating the family’s longstanding interest in athletic competition.

Rayshawn Jenkins’ Childhood and Family Background

Rayshawn Jenkins was raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, where his early years included considerable economic and personal challenges.

He developed an interest in football at a young age and eventually attended Admiral Farragut Academy.

At the school, he competed in football and track and field, establishing himself as a versatile athlete.

He later attended the University of Miami, where he played defensive back for the Hurricanes.

In 2017, Jenkins entered the NFL when the Los Angeles Chargers selected him with the 113th overall pick in the fourth round.

His professional career subsequently included time with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Throughout his journey, Jenkins has acknowledged how his family circumstances motivated him to work toward professional success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rayshawn Jenkins’ Family

Is Rayshawn Jenkins married?

Yes. Rayshawn Jenkins married Emily Lillard in 2024. She is now known as Emily Jenkins.

Who is Rayshawn Jenkins’ girlfriend?

Emily Lillard was previously Rayshawn Jenkins’ longtime girlfriend. As of now, she is publicly identified as his wife.

How many kids does Rayshawn Jenkins have?

Rayshawn Jenkins has two publicly documented children, a son named Ace and a daughter named Blaize.

Who is Rayshawn Jenkins’ father?

His father is Charles Jenkins, who supported the athletic ambitions of his children and previously operated businesses in the Tampa Bay area.

Who is Rayshawn Jenkins’ mother?

His mother is Terry Byrd, who was part of his upbringing in St. Petersburg, Florida.

How many brothers and sisters does Rayshawn Jenkins have?

Rayshawn Jenkins has 17 siblings. He is the sixth-oldest child in his extended family of 18 children.

Does Rayshawn Jenkins have siblings who play sports?

Yes. His sister Charlisa played college basketball at Hampton University, while his brother Keyon played football at Quincy University. Other siblings were also involved in athletics.