Jimmy Rolder (born February 9, 2004) is an American college football linebacker for the Michigan Wolverines. Known for his strong tackling ability and football IQ, Rolder has quickly emerged as a promising talent in the Big Ten.
Quick Facts of Jimmy Rolder
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jimmy Rolder |
| Date of Birth | February 9, 2004 |
| Age | 21 (2025) |
| Birthplace | Orland Park, Illinois, USA |
| High School | Marist High School (Chicago, Illinois) |
| College | University of Michigan |
| Position | Linebacker |
| Height/Weight | Approx. 6 ft 2 in / 225 lb |
| Recruitment Ranking | Four-star linebacker, No. 30 overall in Illinois |
| Family | Mother: Laura Kehoe; Stepfather: Scott Kehoe |
| NIL Earnings | Estimated several thousand USD per year |
| Notable Awards | Defensive Freshman of the Year (Michigan), Special Teams Freshman of the Year |
Early Life and Family
Jimmy Rolder was born and raised in Orland Park, Illinois. He grew up in a sports-oriented family: his stepfather, Scott Kehoe, played football at the University of Illinois and briefly in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins. This athletic background influenced Rolder’s early interest in football.
Rolder attended Marist High School in Chicago, excelling in both football and baseball. During his senior year, he helped lead Marist to a 9-4 record, contributed to three shutouts, and was named to the 8A state semifinals.
High School Football Career
- Stats: 115 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles (senior year)
- Recruitment: Four-star linebacker, ranked No. 30 overall in Illinois by 247Sports
- Multi-sport athlete: Excelled in baseball and football, initially committing to Illinois for baseball
- Recognition: Earned All-Conference and All-State honors
Rolder received offers from multiple Division I programs, including Michigan, Ohio State, and Minnesota, ultimately choosing to play football at Michigan.
College Career at Michigan
Freshman Year (2023–2024)
- Played 13 games, recording 14 tackles (6 solo, 1 for loss)
- Contributed to Michigan’s defense and earned Defensive Freshman of the Year honors
Sophomore Year (2024–2025)
- Appeared in 6 games, totaling 5 tackles (2 solo)
- Recognized for special teams performance, earning Special Teams Freshman of the Year
Overall College Impact
- Has played 19 games for Michigan to date
- Known for size, speed, and tackling ability, making him a key defensive player
- Works alongside linebackers like Junior Colson and Michael Barrett, strengthening Michigan’s linebacker corps
NIL Deals and Earnings
With the NCAA allowing players to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), Jimmy Rolder has secured partnerships with local businesses and brands. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, his estimated NIL earnings are in the several thousand dollars per year range.
Rolder has not entered the transfer portal and remains committed to Michigan, focusing on his athletic development and academic responsibilities.
Personal Life
- Rolder keeps his dating life private, concentrating on football and academics
- Maintains an active social media presence, engaging with fans and sharing glimpses of his athletic life
- His family, particularly his stepfather Scott, has been a key influence in shaping his football career
NFL Draft Projection
- Rolder is considered a rising NFL prospect, with analysts noting his speed, tackling ability, and football IQ
- Continued development in the Big Ten could increase his draft stock, potentially positioning him as a mid-to-late round pick in future drafts
