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Will Grier
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William Grier (born April 3, 1995) is an American professional football quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Florida Gators and West Virginia Mountaineers and was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the third round in the 2019 NFL draft.
Key Information
Early life
[edit]Grier attended SouthLake Christian Academy in Huntersville, North Carolina, then transferred to Davidson Day School in Davidson, North Carolina. As a junior, he threw for a national record 837 yards in a game, breaking the old record of 764.[1][2][3] As a senior, he had 4,989 passing yards with a nation-leading and North Carolina record 77 touchdowns.[4] He also rushed for 1,251 yards with 13 touchdowns.[5] He was named the Parade All-American Player of the Year and Mr. Football USA.[6][7] For his career, Grier had 14,565 passing yards, a state record 195 touchdown passes, 2,955 rushing yards and 31 rushing touchdowns.
Grier was rated by Rivals.com as a four-star recruit and was ranked as the second best dual-threat quarterback in his class and 46th player overall.[8] Grier was offered scholarships to play football at Auburn, Arkansas, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wake Forest. He committed to play quarterback at the University of Florida.[9][10]
College career
[edit]Florida
[edit]Grier competed with Treon Harris to be Jeff Driskel's backup as a freshman in 2014, ultimately redshirting the season.[11] As a redshirt freshman in 2015, he competed with Harris to be the starting quarterback. Although Harris started the first game of the season against New Mexico State, Grier received playing time, attempting 18 passes and completing 16 for 166 yards with two touchdowns. He rushed for 43 yards with a touchdown. Grier started the second game, against East Carolina, throwing for 151 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.[12][13][14] On October 3, against the Ole Miss Rebels, he had the best game of his young career, going 24-of-29 for 271 yards and four passing touchdowns. He threw his four touchdowns in the first half; he was the first Gator quarterback since Chris Leak in 2005 to accomplish the feat. The game ended up being a 38–10 win for the Gators.
Grier received a one-year suspension, effective October 12, 2015, after it was revealed that he had tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. He said the positive test stems from the drug Ligandrol, and that he was not aware it was banned, while also admitting he never followed protocol to clear the supplement with team trainers.[15] His appeal was rejected by the NCAA, and he would not be eligible to return until the sixth game of the regular season in 2016.[16][17][18] On December 19, 2015, Florida announced that Grier planned to transfer to another school.[19]
West Virginia
[edit]On April 6, 2016, Grier announced that he was transferring to West Virginia University.[20] He sat out the 2016 season per NCAA transfer rules. Grier was the presumed starter for West Virginia heading into the 2017 season, but there were questions surrounding his eligibility, since half of his year-long suspension was served in conjunction with his transfer waiting period. On June 20, 2017, West Virginia head coach Dana Holgerson announced that the NCAA had granted Grier a waiver and he would be eligible to play in the season opener against Virginia Tech.[21] In his first game with the Mountaineers, Grier threw for 371 yards, three touchdowns and an interception in a 31–24 loss to Virginia Tech. Grier threw for 352 yards and five touchdowns in a come-from-behind victory over then-No. 24 Texas Tech on October 14, and was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week.[22] In the Mountaineers’ 11th game of the season, against Texas, Grier left the game in the second quarter with a broken finger on his throwing hand.[23] Grier had surgery on the broken finger and missed the remainder of the season, finishing with 3,490 passing yards and 36 total touchdowns on the year. At the conclusion of the season, Grier was awarded as Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year.[24]
On December 14, 2017, Grier announced he would be returning for his senior season rather than entering the 2018 NFL draft.[25] He was listed on preseason watch lists for several national awards, including the Maxwell Award,[26] Walter Camp Award,[27] and Davey O'Brien Award.[28] Grier appeared in several preseason lists of potential Heisman Trophy candidates.[29][30] At the 2018 Big 12 Media Days, he was announced as the conference's Preseason Offensive Player of the Year and a preseason first-team all-conference selection.[31]
Grier finished the 2018 season with 3,864 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He was named second-team All-Big 12 at the conclusion of the regular season. West Virginia finished with an 8–3 regular season record and was invited to the Camping World Bowl; Grier announced that he would not play in the bowl game, in order to prepare for the 2019 NFL draft.[32] Grier would be named the winner of the 2018 Senior CLASS Award for FBS football as the outstanding senior student-athlete in that grouping of schools.[33]
College statistics
[edit]| Season | Team | GP | Passing | Rushing | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | TD | Int | Rtg | Att | Yds | Avg | TD | ||||||
| Florida Gators | ||||||||||||||||
| 2015 | Florida | 6 | 105 | 160 | 65.5 | 1,202 | 10 | 3 | 145.6 | 36 | 116 | 3.2 | 2 | |||
| West Virginia Mountaineers | ||||||||||||||||
| 2017 | West Virginia | 11 | 250 | 388 | 64.4 | 3,490 | 34 | 12 | 162.7 | 63 | 122 | 1.9 | 2 | |||
| 2018 | West Virginia | 11 | 266 | 397 | 67.0 | 3,864 | 37 | 8 | 175.5 | 48 | 90 | 2.9 | 3 | |||
| Career[34] | 28 | 621 | 945 | 65.7 | 8,556 | 81 | 23 | 165.2 | 147 | 328 | 2.2 | 7 | ||||
Professional career
[edit]| Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand span | 40-yard dash | 10-yard split | 20-yard split | 20-yard shuttle | Three-cone drill | Vertical jump | Broad jump | Wonderlic | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 ft 2+1⁄2 in (1.89 m) |
217 lb (98 kg) |
31+1⁄2 in (0.80 m) |
9+3⁄8 in (0.24 m) |
4.84 s | 1.68 s | 2.81 s | 4.28 s | 7.09 s | 34.0 in (0.86 m) |
9 ft 4 in (2.84 m) |
30 | |
| All values from NFL Combine[35][36] | ||||||||||||
Carolina Panthers
[edit]Grier was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the third round (100th overall) in the 2019 NFL draft.[37]
In 2019, he was the third-string quarterback behind Cam Newton and Kyle Allen. On December 16, it was announced that Grier would be making his first career start in week 16 against the Indianapolis Colts.[38] During the game, Grier threw for 224 yards, three interceptions and rushed for 17 yards in the 38–6 loss.[39] In Week 17 season finale against the New Orleans Saints, Grier threw for four yards and a pick-six before exiting the game due to a foot injury in the second quarter. The Panthers lost the game 42–10.[40]
In 2020, new head coach Matt Rhule signed free agent Teddy Bridgewater to be the starter at quarterback. Grier was named the third-string quarterback after being passed on the depth chart by P. J. Walker. He did not play in any games and was declared inactive for 9 of the final 11 contests.
In 2021, the team traded for Sam Darnold to be the starter at quarterback. On August 31, Grier was released after the Panthers decided to keep only two quarterbacks on the roster.[41]
Dallas Cowboys (first stint)
[edit]On September 1, 2021, Grier was claimed off waivers by the Dallas Cowboys, to replace Ben DiNucci as the third-string quarterback behind Dak Prescott and Cooper Rush.[42] He was declared inactive for 16 contests. He was activated for the season finale but did not play.
On August 30, 2022, Grier was waived by the Cowboys and signed to the practice squad the next day.[43][44] He was elevated to the roster in three games, before being promoted to the active roster on October 5, to provide depth while Prescott recovered from a right thumb injury he suffered in the season opener.[45] He served as the backup to Rush for five games, but did not see any game action and was declared inactive for the final 11 weeks.
On August 26, 2023, the Cowboys acquired Trey Lance to be the team's third-string quarterback. Grier was notified the same day that he would be part of the last cuts, but that he would be given the chance to play the complete preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he posted 305 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns and 2 rushing touchdowns.[46] On August 29, Grier was waived.[47]
Cincinnati Bengals
[edit]On August 30, 2023, Grier signed with the practice squad of the Cincinnati Bengals.[48]
New England Patriots
[edit]On September 22, 2023, Grier was signed by the New England Patriots off the Bengals practice squad.[49] He was waived on November 25, 2023, and re-signed three days later to the practice squad.[50][51]
Los Angeles Chargers
[edit]On December 18, 2023, Grier was signed by the Los Angeles Chargers off the Patriots practice squad.[52] He was acquired to be the backup behind Easton Stick, who took over the quarterback starting job after Justin Herbert was placed on injured reserve with a broken finger.
Philadelphia Eagles
[edit]On March 23, 2024, Grier signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.[53] He reunited with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who had also been the offensive coordinator when Grier played for the Cowboys. He was released on August 26 and signed to the practice squad two days later.[54][55] Grier was released again on November 7.[56]
Dallas Cowboys (second stint)
[edit]On November 12, 2024, Grier was signed to the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster on January 4, 2025.[57]
On August 26, 2025, Grier was released by the Cowboys as part of final roster cuts and was re-signed to the practice squad the next day.[58][59]
NFL career statistics
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Passing | Rushing | Sacks | Fumbles | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Record | Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | Avg | TD | Int | Rtg | Att | Yds | Avg | TD | Sck | SckY | Fum | Lost | ||
| 2019 | CAR | 2 | 2 | 0–2 | 28 | 52 | 53.8 | 228 | 4.4 | 0 | 4 | 33.2 | 7 | 22 | 3.1 | 0 | 6 | 44 | 1 | 1 |
| 2020 | CAR | 0 | 0 | — | DNP | |||||||||||||||
| 2021 | DAL | 0 | 0 | — | DNP | |||||||||||||||
| 2022 | DAL | 0 | 0 | — | DNP | |||||||||||||||
| Total | 2 | 2 | 0–2 | 28 | 52 | 53.8 | 228 | 4.4 | 0 | 4 | 33.2 | 7 | 22 | 3.1 | 0 | 6 | 44 | 1 | 1 | |
Personal life
[edit]Grier is from Charlotte, North Carolina and is the oldest child of Chad Grier and Elizabeth Grier-Floyd. His father is a football coach and was a former quarterback for the East Carolina Pirates.[60][61] He has two brothers, Nash and Hayes, a half-sister, Skylynn Elizabeth Floyd and a half-brother, John Henry "Hank" Grier.[62] Nash, Hayes and Skylynn were popular users of Vine, the defunct video sharing service.[63] Grier is married to Jeanne Marie O'Neil and they have two daughters.[64][65]
References
[edit]- ^ "North Carolina prep QB Will Grier throws for 837 yards, 10 TDs in 104–80 state playoff game". Fox News. November 11, 2012. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Grautski, Amara (November 10, 2012). "Davidson Day HS quarterback Will Grier throws for national-record 837 yards in offense-heavy game against Harrells Christian Academy". NY Daily News. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Bradley, Ken (November 1, 2013). "Will Grier: Florida commit, state champion, 837 yards". Sporting News. Archived from the original on October 7, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Mehrtens, Cliff (January 2, 2014). "Grier's gridiron play stood out locally, nationally". The Herald Weekly. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Smits, Garry (August 12, 2014). "Florida offensive coordinator optimistic about freshman QB Will Grier". Jacksonville.com. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Hays, Chris (February 2, 2014). "Gators' QB Will Grier named Parade player of the year". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Huber, Todd (January 14, 2014). "2013 Mr. Football USA – Will Grier". Student Sports. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ "Will Grier". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Abolverdi, Zach (December 19, 2012). "UF picks up commit from top QB". Gainesville.com. Archived from the original on November 17, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Mehrtens, Cliff (December 19, 2012). "Davidson Day quarterback Grier commits to Florida". The Herald Weekly. Archived from the original on November 17, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ "Kurt Roper enjoying QB competition between UF freshmen Will Grier and Treon Harris".
- ^ "Treon Harris, Will Grier put on show as Florida overwhelms New Mexico State – FOX Sports". September 5, 2015.
- ^ Thompson, Edgar. "Will Grier to start at quarterback for Gators Saturday against East Carolina".
- ^ Aschoff, Edward (September 10, 2015). "Freshman QB Grier to get 1st start for Gators". ESPN.com. Retrieved July 21, 2024.
- ^ Grier, Will. Grier, Will (October 27, 2015). "A YEAR IN PED PURGATORY". Bleacher Report. Retrieved December 5, 2016.
- ^ Brett McMurphy (October 12, 2015). "Florida's Will Grier suspended for one year after positive PED test". ESPN. Retrieved October 12, 2015.
- ^ Edgar Thompson (October 12, 2015). "Gators QB Will Grier suspended for year for using banned substance". touch.orlandosentinal.com. Retrieved October 12, 2015.
- ^ Carter, Scott (October 13, 2015). "Answers to some questions people have about Gators QB Will Grier". gatorzone.com. University Athletic Assoc., Inc., Fox Sports Sun & IMG College. Retrieved October 14, 2015.
- ^ "Will Grier to transfer out of Florida". ESPN.com. ESPN. December 19, 2015. Retrieved December 19, 2015.
- ^ Haney, Travis (April 6, 2016). "QB Will Grier transfers from Florida to West Virginia". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 23, 2016.
- ^ Fornelli, Tom (June 20, 2017). "QB Will Grier ruled eligible to play in West Virginia's opener vs. Virginia Tech". CBSSports.com.
- ^ Daniel, Cody (October 16, 2017). "Will Grier honored as Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week, Newcomer of the Week". Dayton Daily News. Archived from the original on July 19, 2018. Retrieved July 18, 2018.
- ^ Hille, Bob (November 20, 2017). "Will Grier injury update: WVU QB's finger surgery successful, return for bowl will be 'tough'". Sporting News. Archived from the original on July 19, 2018. Retrieved July 18, 2018.
- ^ "All-Big 12 Football Honors Announced". Big12sports.com. November 30, 2017.
- ^ "Mountaineers QB Will Grier to return for senior season". ESPN. December 14, 2017. Retrieved May 23, 2018.
- ^ "2018 Maxwell Award Watch List". July 16, 2018. Retrieved July 17, 2018.
- ^ Carbone, Al (July 27, 2018). "Walter Camp Football Foundation Announces 2018 Player of the Year Preseason "Watch List"". Retrieved July 30, 2018.
- ^ "Davey O'Brien Award Watch List includes 26 players". Davey O'Brien Foundation. July 17, 2018. Archived from the original on July 17, 2018.
- ^ Goodbread, Chase (May 15, 2018). "18 for '18: Top Heisman Trophy candidates for 2018". NFL.com.
- ^ Niesen, Joan (January 25, 2018). "Heisman Trophy 2018 odds: Bryce Love and other favorites". Sports Illustrated.
- ^ "Big 12 Announces Media Preseason Football Team". Big12sports.com. July 11, 2018.
- ^ Rittenberg, Adam (December 8, 2018). "Will Grier to focus on preparation for '19 NFL draft". ESPN. Retrieved December 8, 2018.
- ^ "Will Grier Selected as the 2018 Senior CLASS Award® Winner for FBS Football" (Press release). Premier Sports Management. January 16, 2019. Retrieved January 24, 2019.
- ^ "Will Grier College Stats". Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved November 27, 2018.
- ^ "Will Grier Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL.com. Retrieved August 17, 2019.
- ^ "2019 Draft Scout Will Grier, West Virginia NFL Draft Scout College Football Profile". draftscout.com. Retrieved December 15, 2022.
- ^ Bergman, Jeremy (April 26, 2019). "Panthers draft quarterback Will Grier in third round". NFL.com.
- ^ "Will Grier to start for Panthers against Colts". ESPN.com. December 16, 2019. Retrieved December 17, 2019.
- ^ "Hines' long returns help send Colts past Carolina 38–6". ESPN. Associated Press. December 22, 2019. Retrieved December 22, 2019.
- ^ "Saints take care of Panthers, still hope for playoff bye". ESPN. Associated Press. December 29, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- ^ Gantt, Darin (August 31, 2021). "Panthers reduce roster on Tuesday morning". Panthers.com.
- ^ Phillips, Rob (September 1, 2021). "Cowboys Claim QB Will Grier Off Waivers". DallasCowboys.com. Retrieved September 1, 2021.
- ^ Eatman, Nick (August 30, 2022). "Cowboys Make 28 Moves To Reach Roster Limit". DallasCowboys.com.
- ^ Eatman, Nick (August 31, 2022). "Rush, Grier & Maher Among Practice Squad Signees". DallasCowboys.com.
- ^ Alper, Josh (October 4, 2022). "Cowboys will sign Will Grier to active roster". Pro Football Talk. NBC Sports.
- ^ Archer, Todd (August 27, 2023). "Dak: Grier exit after Lance trade 'tough situation'". ESPN.com. Retrieved July 21, 2024.
- ^ "Will Grier: Parts ways with Dallas". CBSSports.com. August 29, 2023.
- ^ Rapien, James (August 30, 2023). "Sources: Bengals Signing Former Cowboys Quarterback Will Grier to Practice Squad". FanNation. Retrieved August 30, 2023.
- ^ "Patriots Sign QB Will Grier to the 53-man Roster from the Cincinnati Practice Squad; Place DB Marcus Jones on Injured Reserve". Patriots.com. September 22, 2023.
- ^ McElroy, Jordy (November 25, 2023). "Patriots waive QB Will Grier, ahead of Week 12 matchup vs Giants". Patriots Wire. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
- ^ "Patriots Sign Two Players to the Practice Squad". Patriots.com. November 29, 2023.
- ^ Katson, Alex (December 18, 2023). "Chargers sign QB Will Grier". Chargers Wire. Retrieved December 19, 2023.
- ^ Boyle, Owen. "Eagles agree to terms with Will Grier on a 1-year contract". PhiladelphiaEagles.com. Retrieved March 24, 2024.
- ^ Mcpherson, Chris. "Eagles release 4 players ahead of final roster cutdown". PhiladelphiaEagles.com. Retrieved August 27, 2024.
- ^ "Eagles practice squad: Team announces 14 signings". Bleeding Green Nation. SB Nation. August 28, 2024.
- ^ McPherson, Chris. "Eagles sign DE Tarron Jackson to the practice squad". philadelphiaeagles.com. Retrieved November 8, 2024.
- ^ "Cowboys sign QB Will Grier to 53-man roster". Pro Football Talk. NBC Sports. January 4, 2025.
- ^ Walker, Patrik. "2025 Roster Tracker: Deuce among list of Cowboys cuts". DallasCowboys.com. Retrieved August 27, 2025.
- ^ Walker, Patrik. "2025 Cowboys Roster: Holden, Grier fill out practice squad". DallasCowboys.com. Retrieved August 29, 2025.
- ^ "Gatorzone.com:Will Grier". Retrieved October 17, 2015.
- ^ "Chad Grier". Retrieved September 5, 2018.
- ^ @ChadGrier_ (March 29, 2019). "Welcome Home Hank!" (Tweet). Retrieved March 16, 2023 – via Twitter.
- ^ Anglis, Jaclyn (September 8, 2015). "Who Are Hayes Grier's Siblings? This Family Definitely Represents #SiblingGoals". Bustle. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
- ^ Raby, John (September 13, 2017). "WVU QB Grier the 3rd most popular brother in his family | College Sports". observer-reporter.com. Retrieved October 31, 2018.
- ^ Staples, Andy (October 30, 2018). "Centered by Fatherhood, Will Grier Is Enjoying the Final Year of His Winding College Career". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved June 5, 2024.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Will Grier.
- Career statistics from NFL.com · ESPN · Yahoo Sports
- Dallas Cowboys bio
- Florida Gators bio
- West Virginia Mountaineers bio
Will Grier
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early years
Family background
Will Grier was born on April 3, 1995, in Davidson, North Carolina.[3][8] He is the oldest child of Chad Grier, a high school football coach who founded and led the program at Davidson Day School, later coached at Oceanside Collegiate Academy in South Carolina from 2017 to 2020, and has served as head coach at Providence Day School in North Carolina since 2020, and Elizabeth Grier-Floyd, who has pursued interests in nutrition and fitness while managing a significant social media presence.[9][10][11][12] Grier grew up alongside his younger brothers, Nash and Hayes Grier, both of whom rose to prominence as social media influencers on platforms like Vine and Instagram, amassing millions of followers and shifting family life toward a blend of athletic pursuits and digital celebrity.[13][14] He also has a half-sister, Skylynn Elizabeth Floyd, from his mother's remarriage, contributing to a dynamic household where the brothers' online fame often overshadowed other aspects of family routine, with Nash and Hayes eventually moving to Los Angeles for their careers while maintaining close ties through frequent visits and communication.[10][15] From an early age, Grier was immersed in football through his father's coaching role, attending Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) camps where he observed sessions and began throwing passes alongside older participants by age 10 or 11, fostering his initial passion for the sport within the supportive yet high-profile environment of his family in the Charlotte area.[9][14] No major relocations disrupted his childhood before high school, as the family remained rooted in North Carolina's Lake Norman region.[16]High school career
Will Grier attended Davidson Day School in Davidson, North Carolina, after transferring from SouthLake Christian Academy in Huntersville as a sophomore. Under the coaching of his father, Chad Grier, he developed into one of the nation's top high school quarterbacks, showcasing exceptional arm strength and accuracy in the Patriots' high-powered offense.[17] Over his three-year varsity career at Davidson Day, Grier amassed 14,565 passing yards and a North Carolina state-record 195 touchdown passes, completing 887 of 1,264 attempts with just 27 interceptions.[18] His standout performances included a national-record 837 passing yards and 10 touchdowns in a single game during his junior season, as well as 5,785 yards and 69 touchdowns that year. As a senior, he threw for 4,989 yards and 77 touchdowns, capping his high school tenure with 599 yards and seven scores in the NCISAA Division II state championship victory over Harrells Christian Academy. Grier led Davidson Day to three consecutive NCISAA state titles from 2011 to 2013, establishing the program as a powerhouse in North Carolina independent school football.[19][20][21] Grier's dominance earned him prestigious honors, including Parade Magazine National High School Player of the Year, Mr. Football USA, and Gatorade North Carolina Player of the Year as a senior.[22][20][23] A five-star recruit (247Sports) ranked among the top quarterback prospects nationally, he drew interest from multiple college programs before committing to the University of Florida in December 2012.[4][24]College career
Florida Gators
Will Grier, a highly touted quarterback recruit from Davidson Day School in North Carolina, committed to the University of Florida in December 2012 following an outstanding high school career.[25] He enrolled early at Florida in January 2014, weighing approximately 188 pounds, and did not see any game action during the 2014 season, opting to redshirt to preserve a year of eligibility while adjusting to college life and the playbook.[26][27] In 2015, under first-year head coach Jim McElwain, Grier served as the backup to sophomore Treon Harris, who won the starting job in fall camp despite a strong spring performance from Grier.[28] The Gators' offense showed early promise in McElwain's pro-style system, with Grier and Harris combining for efficient passing in the season opener.[29] Grier gradually took over the starting role after Harris faced legal issues, appearing in six games and completing 106 of 161 passes for 1,204 yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions, helping Florida achieve a 6-0 start and a Top 10 ranking.[2][30] Grier's momentum halted on October 12, 2015, when he was suspended for a calendar year by the NCAA after testing positive for Ligandrol, a performance-enhancing substance in an over-the-counter supplement he took without consulting team medical staff to aid weight gain from 188 to 210 pounds.[31] The suspension, which cost him a year of eligibility, sidelined him for the remainder of the 2015 season and the first six games of 2016; his appeal was denied in November 2015.[32] McElwain suggested Grier consider a transfer for a fresh start, leading to his departure from the program.[27] On December 19, 2015, Florida announced Grier's intent to transfer, ending his time with the Gators after a turbulent redshirt freshman year marked by on-field success and off-field adversity.[33] During this period, Grier focused on academics to remain eligible and reflected on the incident as a lesson in accountability, though he later described the experience as emotionally challenging, contributing to personal maturation amid depression and uncertainty.[34][27]West Virginia Mountaineers
After transferring from the Florida Gators in April 2016, Will Grier sat out the 2016 season per NCAA transfer rules but received a waiver in June 2017 that granted him immediate eligibility for the full season, allowing him to start for the Mountaineers.[35][36] In the 2017 season under head coach Dana Holgorsen, Grier started 11 games, completing 250 of 388 passes for 3,490 yards, 34 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, helping lead West Virginia to a 7-6 record before a season-ending finger injury in the first quarter against Texas sidelined him for the regular-season finale and the Heart of Dallas Bowl loss to Utah.[2][37] His performance emphasized a strong arm for deep throws, as he attempted 97 passes of 20-plus yards, completing 36 for 1,506 yards and 16 touchdowns, though his limited mobility restricted his rushing to just 122 yards and two scores on the year.[38][2] Grier returned as the starter in 2018, appearing in 11 games and passing for 3,864 yards, 37 touchdowns, and eight interceptions on 266 of 397 attempts, guiding the Mountaineers to an 8-4 regular season record that qualified them for the Camping World Bowl (though Grier opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft).[2] Notable performances included a 21-of-26 effort for 332 yards and three touchdowns in a narrow 21-17 loss at NC State, as well as career-highs of 539 yards and four touchdowns in a defeat to Oklahoma.[39][40] Grier's style continued to rely on precise deep-ball accuracy rather than escapability, with his pocket presence and arm talent driving West Virginia's air raid offense despite ongoing mobility constraints that limited his designed runs.[38]College achievements and statistics
Over his college career at the Florida Gators and West Virginia Mountaineers, Will Grier accumulated 8,558 passing yards, 81 passing touchdowns, and 23 interceptions in 28 games, with a career completion percentage of 65.7 and a passer rating of 161.2.[2] These totals reflect his development as a high-volume, efficient passer, particularly during his two seasons at West Virginia where he started all 22 games he appeared in.[37] Grier's standout accolades include being named the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year in 2017 after transferring from Florida and leading West Virginia to a 7-6 record with his prolific arm.[41] In 2018, he won the Senior CLASS Award as the top senior student-athlete in FBS football, recognizing his excellence in the classroom, community, character, and competition.[42] He was also a finalist for the award earlier that year before securing the honor.[43] At West Virginia, Grier set multiple program benchmarks, including throwing for five or more touchdown passes in a single game a school-record four times during his tenure.[44] His 37 passing touchdowns in 2018 rank second in Mountaineers history, behind only Geno Smith's 42 in 2012, and contributed to an 8-4 regular season that qualified for the Camping World Bowl.[45] In terms of peer comparisons, Grier's 175.5 passer rating in 2018 ranked 10th in Big 12 single-season history and placed him among the national leaders, finishing third in FBS passing efficiency that year while topping the conference.[46] His career Big 12 passing efficiency of 169.2 ranks third all-time in conference annals among qualifiers.[47] Ahead of the 2019 NFL Draft, Grier was included on the Heisman Trophy watch list and ultimately finished fourth in the final voting, the highest placement for a Mountaineer since 2007.[48] At West Virginia's pro day in March 2019, he impressed scouts from all 32 NFL teams with a strong throwing session, showcasing his smooth delivery, accuracy on intermediate routes, and overall pocket decisiveness, which helped elevate his draft stock as a projected mid-round selection.[49][50]Professional career
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers selected Will Grier in the third round (100th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft, marking their first selection of a quarterback since Cam Newton in 2011.[51] As a native of Davidson, North Carolina, Grier joined the team in his home state, where general manager Marty Hurney emphasized the pick as an investment in depth and long-term development at the position amid uncertainties with the incumbent quarterbacks.[52] Grier signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $3.85 million, including a signing bonus of $779,281, which kept him under team control through the 2022 season.[1] During the 2019 season under head coach Ron Rivera, Grier began as the third-string quarterback behind Newton and Kyle Allen, focusing on scout team duties in training camp and practices to simulate opposing offenses.[53] Midway through the year, following injuries to Newton and inconsistent play from Allen, Grier made his first two NFL starts in the final weeks against the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints, completing 28 of 52 passes for 228 yards but throwing four interceptions in losses that highlighted his rookie challenges in game management and decision-making.[6][54] In 2020, with Matt Rhule taking over as head coach, Grier remained on the 53-man roster as the third-string quarterback behind starter Teddy Bridgewater and backup P.J. Walker, participating actively in training camp and practices to refine his skills within the new offensive scheme led by coordinator Joe Brady.[55][56] He saw no game action that season, instead contributing to team preparation and expressing growth in his understanding of protections and reads during camp sessions. The Panthers released Grier on August 31, 2021, prior to the regular season, opting to retain Walker as Bridgewater's backup after Grier's solid but ultimately surplus preseason performance.[57]Dallas Cowboys (first stint)
Following his release by the Carolina Panthers on August 31, 2021, Grier was claimed off waivers by the Dallas Cowboys the next day, marking the beginning of his initial tenure with the team.[58] Grier spent the 2021 NFL season as the third-string quarterback behind Dak Prescott and Cooper Rush, but saw no game action, remaining inactive for 16 of 17 contests and being activated only for the regular-season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles without entering the game.[6] His role primarily involved contributing to the scout team, simulating opposing offenses during practice to aid the Cowboys' starting unit and backups in preparation, while also focusing on personal development within head coach Mike McCarthy's offensive system.[59] In the 2022 preseason, Grier competed for a roster spot but was waived by the Cowboys on August 30 during final cuts to trim to the 53-man roster; he was re-signed to the practice squad the following day. Later that season, amid Prescott's thumb injury sustained in Week 3, Grier was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster on October 4, providing emergency depth behind Rush, though he again did not appear in any games and returned to the practice squad shortly thereafter.[60] Throughout his time in Dallas, Grier's contributions centered on team preparation and skill refinement rather than on-field play, reflecting his position as a developmental backup in a quarterback room led by Prescott.Cincinnati Bengals
Will Grier joined the Cincinnati Bengals on August 30, 2023, signing to their practice squad shortly after being waived by the Dallas Cowboys. This move came as the Bengals sought additional quarterback depth behind starter Joe Burrow and backup Jake Browning, following the release of veteran Trevor Siemian. Grier, who had impressed in the Cowboys' preseason with 640 passing yards and four touchdowns, provided an experienced option for practice reps and emergency situations.[61] During his brief tenure with the Bengals, spanning from late August to mid-September 2023, Grier served primarily as the third-string quarterback on the practice squad, contributing to daily preparations amid Burrow's ongoing recovery from a calf injury sustained in training camp. Although not elevated to the active roster for any games, Grier was positioned to potentially compete with Browning for the backup role if circumstances warranted, given Browning's uneven preseason performance. His presence added competition and versatility to the quarterback room, aligning with head coach Zac Taylor's emphasis on depth for a team aiming to defend its AFC North title.[62][63] Grier's time in Cincinnati coincided with a Bengals organization fresh off back-to-back AFC Championship appearances in the 2021 and 2022 seasons, including a Super Bowl LVI run in 2022 where they fell to the Los Angeles Rams. This competitive environment offered Grier valuable exposure to a high-stakes practice setting, where he supported the development of Burrow and the offense during the early regular season. However, on September 22, 2023, Grier was signed away by the New England Patriots to their 53-man roster, ending his stint with the Bengals after just over three weeks.New England Patriots
Following his release from the Dallas Cowboys in late August 2023 and a brief stint on the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad, Will Grier was signed to the New England Patriots' 53-man roster on September 22, 2023, as the third quarterback behind starter Mac Jones and backup Bailey Zappe.[64] Under head coach Bill Belichick, Grier's exposure remained limited to practice duties, with no game appearances during his initial two-month tenure on the active roster.[65] Belichick praised Grier's quick adaptation to the Patriots' offensive system, noting in early October that he was "sharp" and had "picked things up pretty quickly" while integrating into the quarterback room alongside Jones and Zappe.[66] On November 25, 2023, the Patriots waived Grier to accommodate offensive lineman Conor McDermott on the active roster; he was re-signed to the practice squad three days later.[67][68] Grier's association with New England concluded on December 18, 2023, when the Los Angeles Chargers signed him to their active roster directly from the Patriots' practice squad.[69]Los Angeles Chargers
On December 18, 2023, the Los Angeles Chargers signed quarterback Will Grier off the New England Patriots' practice squad to their active roster, adding veteran depth to the quarterback position amid Justin Herbert's season-ending finger injury. Grier served as the primary backup to Easton Stick for the team's final three regular-season games, providing stability in a quarterback room that had recently waived rookie Max Duggan to accommodate the move.[70] During his brief tenure under head coach Brandon Staley, Grier did not see game action but contributed to practices and meetings, offering experienced guidance to younger signal-callers like Stick, who was in his second NFL season.[71] His role emphasized preparation and mentorship rather than on-field snaps, aligning with the Chargers' need for reliable emergency options late in a 5-12 season.[3] Following the conclusion of the 2023 season, Grier became an unrestricted free agent and did not return to the Chargers for 2024.[1]Philadelphia Eagles
On March 23, 2024, Will Grier signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, reuniting him with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who had previously worked with him during his time with the Dallas Cowboys.[72][73] Grier entered the quarterback competition behind starter Jalen Hurts and backup Kenny Pickett, vying primarily with rookie Tanner McKee for the third-string role under head coach Nick Sirianni.[73] Throughout training camp, his focus centered on short-yardage situations and scout-team responsibilities, providing veteran depth while developing the younger players in the room.[72] Grier saw limited action in the preseason, appearing in two of the Eagles' three games and completing passes for 51 yards overall without a touchdown or interception.[74] In the Week 2 matchup against the New England Patriots on August 15, he entered late in the second quarter, converting a crucial third-and-1 with an 8-yard rushing gain to sustain a drive, though he did not attempt any passes in that appearance.[75] His role emphasized mobility in designed runs and handoffs during practice simulations, aligning with the team's emphasis on versatile quarterback development amid a competitive depth chart. Following the preseason, the Eagles released Grier on August 26, 2024, as part of their final roster cutdown to reach the 53-man limit.[76] He was re-signed to the practice squad two days later on August 28, 2024, where he remained through the early regular season without seeing game action.[77] Grier was ultimately released from the practice squad on November 7, 2024, to accommodate the addition of defensive end Tarron Jackson.[78]Dallas Cowboys (second stint)
In November 2024, following Dak Prescott's season-ending hamstring injury, the Dallas Cowboys signed Will Grier to their practice squad as additional quarterback depth behind Cooper Rush and Trey Lance.[79][80] Grier's prior experience with the Cowboys from his 2020 stint provided familiarity with the team's offensive scheme.[80] On January 4, 2025, ahead of the regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders, Grier was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster, though he remained inactive for the game.[81] The Cowboys extended Grier's contract shortly after, securing his return for the 2025 season.[82] As training camp progressed in 2025, Grier competed for a backup role but was released on August 26 during final roster cuts.[83] He was re-signed to the practice squad the next day on a contract worth $396,000, positioning him as the third-string quarterback behind Prescott and Joe Milton.[84][85] Throughout the early 2025 season, Grier has remained on the practice squad without any elevations or game appearances as of November 8, providing emergency depth amid ongoing injury risks to the primary quarterbacks.[86][87] Under head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who assumed the role in January 2025 following Mike McCarthy's departure, Grier's position emphasizes practice contributions and readiness for elevation in injury scenarios, similar to his utility in prior seasons.[88][89] His role supports the Cowboys' emphasis on quarterback stability, with potential for expanded involvement if Prescott or Milton face health challenges during the season.[90]NFL statistics
Will Grier has limited regular season experience in the NFL, appearing in two games during his 2019 rookie season with the Carolina Panthers, where he completed 28 of 52 passes for 228 yards, zero touchdowns, and four interceptions, yielding a passer rating of 33.2.[6] His rushing contribution in those games consisted of seven carries for 22 yards and no scores.[91] Grier has no postseason statistics and zero career starts.[3] Throughout his professional career, Grier has served extensively on practice squads and been elevated to active rosters on multiple occasions without entering additional regular season contests, including three elevations during the 2022 season with the Dallas Cowboys.[92] He has also participated in numerous preseason games across teams such as the Panthers, Cowboys, Chargers, and Patriots, providing depth and emergency quarterback options.[7] Grier's career passer rating of 33.2 ranks among the lowest for quarterbacks with at least 50 pass attempts, reflecting his challenging debut performances relative to other backup quarterbacks who have seen similar limited action.[3]Year-by-Year Regular Season Statistics
Passing
| Year | Team | GP | GS | Cmp | Att | Yds | TD | Int | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | CAR | 2 | 0 | 28 | 52 | 228 | 0 | 4 | 33.2 |
| 2020 | CAR | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| 2021 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| 2022 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| 2023 | LAC | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| 2024 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| 2025 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - |
| Career | - | 2 | 0 | 28 | 52 | 228 | 0 | 4 | 33.2 |
Rushing
| Year | Team | GP | Car | Yds | TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | CAR | 2 | 7 | 22 | 0 |
| 2020 | CAR | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | LAC | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | DAL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | - | 2 | 7 | 22 | 0 |