Alec Ingold, a fullback for the Miami Dolphins, is a player who stands out. He’s known for his hard-hitting blocks, his leadership both on the field and off, and a personal story that resonates. Born on July 9, 1996, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the 29-year-old has built a solid NFL career, even though he wasn’t drafted in 2019. At 6’1″ and 232 pounds, Ingold is the epitome of the fullback, a position that’s becoming less common in today’s game.
Early on, Ingold’s path took shape in Suamico, Wisconsin. He was a multi-sport star at Bay Port High School. He played quarterback in football and was a state champion wrestler in the 220-pound division. Adopted at birth, Ingold frequently credits his family for his determination.
Recruited by the University of Wisconsin, Ingold’s collegiate career saw him shift positions frequently. He began as a linebacker, then switched to running back, before finally finding his place at fullback. Within the Badgers’ power-run offense, he thrived, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line scenarios, where his touchdown efficiency was impressive. Over the course of his college years, he started 11 games, was named Academic All-Big Ten three times, and graduated with a degree in Personal Finance. His senior season was particularly noteworthy, leading to invitations to both the 2019 Senior Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine; he was the only true fullback invited that year.
NFL Career
After going undrafted in 2019, Ingold signed with the Oakland Raiders as a rookie free agent. He made an immediate impact, starting games and contributing on special teams. During his three years with the Raiders, even after their relocation to Las Vegas, he became known as a dependable blocker and a receiver when called upon.
Then came 2021, and the injury. Ingold tore his ACL in Week 10, which meant his season was over. The Raiders chose not to offer him a tender as a restricted free agent, but he bounced back in a big way. In March 2022, he signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins.
With head coach Mike McDaniel at the helm—a coach who favored the Shanahan offense, which appreciates adaptable fullbacks—Ingold found his stride. His blocking opened up holes for Miami’s potent running game, and he contributed as a receiver. By 2023, his play had earned him his first Pro Bowl nod and a substantial three-year extension, potentially worth up to $17.2 million. This made him the highest-paid fullback in the NFL at that moment, second only to Kyle Juszczyk.
Ingold’s leadership on the field is well-documented; he’s served as a team captain and received the Dolphins’ Don Shula Leadership Award. Heading into the 2025 season, he’s still a vital part of Miami’s offensive strategy, which is placing a renewed emphasis on the running game.
Off the field, Ingold’s impact extends far beyond the gridiron.
He’s known for his community involvement. Having been adopted himself, he collaborates with AdoptUSKids to highlight the importance of adopting foster children. He also established the Ingold Family Foundation and champions financial literacy through initiatives like “Money Minicamp.”
A three-time nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, Alec Ingold also penned The Seven Crucibles: An Inspirational Game Plan for Overcoming Adversity in Your Life. A man of faith, he is married to Alexa Ingold.
In a unique moment for an undrafted player, Ingold announced a Dolphins draft pick at the 2025 NFL Draft.
Alec Ingold embodies the modern fullback: tough, adaptable, and influential in ways that go beyond the numbers. In a league that favors the pass, he demonstrates the position’s lasting importance, while his resilience and generosity serve as an inspiration. As the Dolphins strive for playoff success, Ingold continues to be a key leader both on and off the field.
