The quarterback who took college football by storm during his senior year made headlines when he won the 2019 Heisman Trophy. That season, he delivered an absolutely dominant performance with the LSU Tigers, leading them to an undefeated record and a national championship—solidifying his legacy as one of the most impactful players in recent college football history. His name? Well, it became synonymous with excellence on the field, and scouts couldn’t look away. As a result, he was selected first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
In his early NFL years, he continued to shine, guiding the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2021-22 season—Super Bowl LVI. Though they ultimately fell short against the Los Angeles Rams, his leadership and poise under pressure earned widespread praise. People started recognizing his name not just for his arm strength, but for his ability to elevate an entire team.
Before all the fame and spotlight, though, his path wasn’t straightforward. He initially committed to Ohio State University to play football, where he redshirted his freshman year. For the next two seasons, he served as a backup, patiently waiting for his moment. Then, in the spring of 2018, he made the pivotal decision to transfer to LSU—a move that would change everything.
Off the field, his personal life has also drawn attention. His parents, Robin and Jim, have been supportive throughout his journey. In past years, he was in a relationship with Olivia Holzmacher, and the couple got engaged in August 2023. However, by April 2024, they announced their split. Later that same year, in late 2024, he began a new chapter, starting a relationship with model Olivia Ponton. Through highs and lows, both on and off the gridiron, his name continues to carry weight—representing resilience, talent, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
During his junior year at LSU, he really stepped up and led the Tigers to an impressive Fiesta Bowl victory over Central Florida. His performance on the field was nothing short of outstanding, and as a result, he was named MVP of the game—a well-deserved honor that highlighted his impact. He showed tremendous leadership and skill throughout the season, but especially in that crucial matchup. It was clear that he was a key player, and moments like these only solidified his reputation. He made a lasting impression, not just with the win, but with the way he carried himself under pressure.