Harold Fannin Jr. has taken the college football world by storm, rewriting record books as a tight end for the Bowling Green Falcons and positioning himself as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Hailing from Canton, Ohio—the birthplace of the NFL—Fannin’s journey from an unranked high school recruit to a consensus All-American is a story of grit, talent, and tragedy-fueled determination.
In this comprehensive 3000-word blog post, we’ll explore every facet of Harold Fannin Jr.’s life—his age, NFL career potential, family background, siblings, height, weight, parents and their names, relationship status (girlfriends, wife, kids), net worth, house, car, college stats, brand endorsements, friends, NFL draft projections, and an FAQ section. Whether you’re a Falcons fan or an NFL enthusiast, this guide has everything you need to know about Harold Fannin Jr.
Who Is Harold Fannin Jr.? A Rising Star’s Journey
Born on July 20, 2004, Harold Fannin Jr. is an American college football tight end who has redefined the position with his historic 2024 season at Bowling Green State University. Growing up in Canton, Ohio, Fannin starred at McKinley High School as a two-way player, earning First-Team All-Ohio honors as a defensive back while also shining as a wide receiver. Despite his talent, he flew under the recruiting radar, arriving at Bowling Green as an unrated prospect. There, coaches saw his 6’4”, 230-pound frame and versatile skill set as perfect for a transition to tight end—a decision that paid off spectacularly. Fannin’s junior year in 2024 saw him lead the nation in receptions (117) and receiving yards (1,555), becoming the first tight end in FBS history to achieve that feat and earning the MAC’s Vern Smith Leadership Award as the conference’s overall MVP. Now, with his sights set on the 2025 NFL Draft, Fannin is poised to bring his unique talents to the pros.
Harold Fannin’s Age: How Old Is He in 2025?
As of April 4, 2025, Harold Fannin Jr. is 20 years old, born on July 20, 2004. He’ll turn 21 in July 2025, making him one of the youngest prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Declaring as a true junior after just three college seasons, Fannin’s age is a massive selling point for NFL teams. At 20, he offers a rare blend of elite production and untapped potential, with room to grow physically and technically over a potentially decade-long career. His youth, paired with his record-breaking stats, positions him as a high-upside pick who could develop into a cornerstone player at the next level.
Harold Fannin’s NFL Career: What Lies Ahead?
Harold Fannin Jr. hasn’t played an NFL snap yet, but his college performance suggests a bright professional future. After a modest freshman year in 2022 (19 receptions, 218 yards, 1 TD), he broke out in 2023 with 44 catches for 623 yards and 6 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-MAC honors. His 2024 season, however, was historic—117 receptions, 1,555 yards, and 10 touchdowns, shattering FBS tight end records for receptions, yards, and yards per game (119.6). He capped it with a 17-catch, 213-yard MVP performance in the 2024 68 Ventures Bowl. Fannin’s versatility—lining up in-line, in the slot, out wide, and even in the backfield—makes him a modern “move” tight end, akin to Evan Engram or Kyle Pitts.
Analysts project Fannin as a Day 2 pick (Rounds 2-3) in the 2025 NFL Draft, set for April 24-26 in Green Bay. His Combine showing (4.71-second 40, strong hands in drills) and Senior Bowl invite bolster his stock, though his 230-pound frame raises questions about in-line blocking. Teams like the Dallas Cowboys (needing a Jake Ferguson complement), Baltimore Ravens (to pair with Isaiah Likely), or Green Bay Packers (for Jordan Love) could target him. Fannin’s NFL ceiling is a top-5 tight end if he lands with a creative play-caller who maximizes his receiving skills early while developing his blocking.
Harold Fannin’s Family: A Tight-Knit Support System
Family has been central to Harold Fannin Jr.’s rise, especially amid personal tragedy. Raised in Canton, Ohio, he grew up in a close-knit household that shaped his resilience and work ethic. The loss of his grandfather, Harold “Sonny” Smith, and older sister, Haria Smith, during his college years fueled his drive, turning heartbreak into motivation on the field.
Parents and Their Names
Harold Fannin Jr.’s mother is Lakeesha Wise, a single mom who raised him and his siblings with love and discipline. Lakeesha has been a rock for Harold, shielding him from Haria’s declining health during her battle with leukemia so he could focus on football. She attended his games, like the 2023 Akron matchup, and has spoken of the family’s tight bond, recalling dance-offs at home. His father is Harold Fannin Sr., though little is known publicly about him. Harold Jr. credits both parents for his upbringing, with Lakeesha’s influence particularly evident in his grounded demeanor and LeBron James-inspired community focus.
Siblings
Harold Fannin Jr. has four siblings: one brother, Tahoe Wise, and three sisters, Christiana, Sky, and the late Haria Smith. Haria, a year older, was especially close to Harold—described by Lakeesha as “twins” for their constant whispering and inside jokes. Haria’s leukemia diagnosis in 2022 and death in October 2023 profoundly impacted Harold, who cherishes their last moments together at his 2023 home opener (7 catches, 109 yards, 1 TD). His grandfather Sonny, who died of organ failure when Harold was in eighth grade, was another guiding light, driving him to practices and bonding over NFL Sundays. Tahoe, Christiana, and Sky remain part of his support network, though they stay out of the public eye.
Harold Fannin’s Height and Weight: Physical Profile
At 6’4” and 230 pounds, Harold Fannin Jr. has a lean, athletic build for a tight end. His height gives him a wide catch radius—evident in his two career drops on 171 targets—while his weight, though light for an in-line role, suits his “big slot” projection. At the 2025 Combine, he ran a 4.71-second 40-yard dash, showing decent speed for his size, and his 33-inch arms aid in contested catches and blocking reach. Scouts compare him to Evan Engram (6’3”, 240 lbs), though Fannin may need to add 10-15 pounds to handle NFL physicality. His frame and agility make him a matchup nightmare, especially in the passing game.
Harold Fannin’s Relationship Status: Girlfriends, Wife, and Kids
Girlfriends and Their Names
As of April 2025, Harold Fannin Jr. has no publicly confirmed girlfriends. At 20, with a focus on football and mourning personal losses, he’s kept his romantic life private. No social media hints or media reports link him to anyone specific, suggesting he’s prioritizing his NFL transition over dating. As his profile rises post-draft, more might surface, but for now, there’s no named girlfriend to note.
Wife and Kids
Harold Fannin Jr. is not married and has no children. At 20, he’s far from settling down, with his energy directed toward his career and family legacy. Marriage and kids seem years away as he prepares for the NFL spotlight.
Harold Fannin’s Net Worth: Financial Snapshot
As a college athlete, Harold Fannin Jr.’s net worth is modest, likely in the $50,000-$150,000 range from Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. His 2024 accolades—MAC MVP, All-American status—boosted his NIL value, though exact figures aren’t public. Post-draft, his net worth will soar; a second-round pick in 2024 signed for $8-10 million over four years, with $3-4 million in bonuses. With endorsements looming, Fannin could hit $5-10 million within a few NFL seasons, depending on his performance and marketability.
Harold Fannin’s House and Car: Lifestyle Peek
Living as a Bowling Green student in 2024, Fannin likely resided in dorms or off-campus housing in Bowling Green, Ohio—no mansion yet. His car is unknown; given his humble roots, he might drive something practical like a Honda or Toyota. An NFL contract will change that—expect a starter home in his draft city and a flashy ride (perhaps a Dodge Charger or Tesla) to match his rising status.
Harold Fannin’s Stats: Record-Breaking Numbers
Fannin’s college stats are jaw-dropping, especially his 2024 season. Here’s the breakdown:
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2022 (Freshman): 11 games, 19 receptions, 218 yards, 1 TD, 11.5 yards per catch.
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2023 (Sophomore): 13 games, 44 receptions, 623 yards, 6 TDs, 14.2 yards per catch.
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2024 (Junior): 13 games, 117 receptions, 1,555 yards, 10 TDs, 13.3 yards per catch; 8 100-yard games, 63 catches of 10+ yards, 873 yards after catch.
Career totals: 180 receptions, 2,396 yards, 17 TDs over 37 games. His 2024 haul—leading all FBS players in receptions and yards—set FBS tight end records, surpassing Jace Amaro (1,352 yards) and James Casey (111 receptions). His 17-catch, 213-yard bowl game was a fitting capstone, earning him MVP honors.
Brand Endorsements: Marketability Potential
Fannin’s NIL deals at Bowling Green were likely local, but his 2024 explosion opens doors. His Canton roots, record-breaking stats, and All-American status make him appealing to brands like Nike, Gatorade, or Under Armour. His LeBron James admiration could spark Ohio-centric partnerships, and his youth adds long-term value. Post-draft, expect endorsements to boost his income significantly.
Harold Fannin’s Friends: Who’s in His Circle?
Fannin’s private nature limits details on his friendships. At Bowling Green, he likely bonded with quarterback Connor Bazelak, who targeted him 117 times in 2024. High school mentors like coach Robert Edwards and family figures like Sonny shaped his early years. In the NFL, he’ll build new connections with teammates, especially fellow rookies from the 2025 class.
Harold Fannin and the 2025 NFL Draft: Projections
Declared for the 2025 NFL Draft on December 30, 2024, Fannin is a consensus Day 2 prospect (Rounds 2-3). His production is unmatched, but his 230-pound frame and unpolished blocking temper first-round buzz. The Combine (4.71 40, solid drills) and Senior Bowl invite highlight his athleticism, with his Pro Day later in April 2025 offering a final showcase. Teams needing a pass-catching tight end—like the Cowboys, Ravens, or Packers—could snag him. His ceiling is a Pro Bowl “move” tight end; his floor is a reliable slot weapon.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Harold Fannin Jr. Answered
1. How old is Harold Fannin Jr.?
He’s 20, born July 20, 2004, turning 21 in July 2025.
2. What’s his height and weight?
Fannin is 6’4” and 230 pounds.
3. Who are his parents?
His mother is Lakeesha Wise; his father is Harold Fannin Sr.
4. Does he have a girlfriend or wife?
No confirmed girlfriend or wife as of April 2025.
5. What’s his net worth?
Estimated at $50,000-$150,000 now, with millions ahead post-draft.
6. What are his college stats?
180 receptions, 2,396 yards, 17 TDs over three seasons.
7. When is the 2025 NFL Draft?
April 24-26, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
8. What round will he be drafted?
Likely Round 2 or 3, per current projections.
Conclusion: Harold Fannin Jr.’s Bright Future
Harold Fannin Jr.’s journey—from Canton to Bowling Green to the NFL Draft—is a tale of talent, tragedy, and triumph. At 20, with unmatched stats and a versatile skill set, he’s on the brink of stardom. Supported by his family, driven by his sister’s memory, and armed with a game-changing resume, Fannin is ready to make his mark in the NFL. Keep an eye on this tight end phenom—he’s just getting started.