Tony Fields II Bio
Tony Fields II (born June 18, 1999) is an American professional football linebacker who currently plays in the National Football League. Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, Fields emerged as a notable college defender at both the University of Arizona and West Virginia University before entering the NFL. The Cleveland Browns selected him in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. After three seasons with the Browns, Fields joined the Los Angeles Rams practice squad in 2024 and signed a reserve/future contract with the team in January 2025. His professional career has been marked by versatility, consistency, and the ability to contribute on multiple defenses.
Early Life and Background
Tony Fields II was born on June 18, 1999, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is the son of LeMisha Grinstead, a well-known singer, which gave him a unique upbringing in the entertainment world while he pursued athletics. Fields attended Desert Pines High School in Las Vegas, where he first demonstrated his football abilities as a defender. His high school performance attracted attention from college programs across the country, setting the stage for his collegiate career.
During his time at Desert Pines High School, Fields developed into a formidable linebacker, showcasing the instincts and physical tools that would define his future in the sport. His standout play earned him an opportunity to continue his football career at the Division I level, leading him to make his college commitment.
Path to the NFL
Fields committed to play collegiately at the University of Arizona, joining the Wildcats program in 2017. Over the next three seasons, he established himself as a three-year starter, primarily playing the outside linebacker position. His consistent performance and durability made him a reliable presence in the Arizona defense, preparing him for the next step in his football journey.
Following his junior year at Arizona, Fields made the decision to transfer to West Virginia University for his senior season. This move allowed him to prove his versatility to NFL scouts by playing in a different defensive system. The transition paid immediate dividends, as Fields delivered a standout senior season that significantly boosted his draft stock. His performance earned him recognition as the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year and a spot on the All-Big 12 Conference football team. He also earned Reese’s Senior Bowl All-America First-team honors, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive prospects in his draft class.
Tony Fields II Career
Cleveland Browns (2021–2024)
On May 1, 2021, the Cleveland Browns selected Tony Fields II with the 153rd overall pick in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He signed his four-year rookie contract on May 13, 2021, officially beginning his professional football career. Fields joined a Browns defense that was building toward contention and immediately worked to carve out a role in their linebacker rotation.
Over his three seasons with the Browns from 2021 to 2024, Fields contributed steadily on special teams and in defensive packages. He recorded 88 total tackles, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, one pass deflection, one interception, and two defensive touchdowns during his tenure. His versatility allowed the coaching staff to utilize him in various situations, demonstrating his value beyond just his defensive coverage and run-stopping abilities.
The 2024 season, however, presented challenges. Fields suffered an ankle injury in Week 1 of the 2024 campaign. The team placed him on injured reserve on September 11, 2024, ending his season prematurely. On October 22, 2024, the Browns released Fields, marking the end of his initial NFL chapter.
Los Angeles Rams (2024–2025)
Following his release from Cleveland, Fields quickly found a new opportunity. On October 28, 2024, the Los Angeles Rams signed him to their practice squad, providing him a pathway back to NFL competition. This move allowed Fields to continue developing while acclimating to a new defensive system.
Fields impressed the Rams coaching staff enough to earn a longer-term opportunity. On January 20, 2025, he signed a reserve/future contract with Los Angeles, securing his spot on the roster for the 2025 season. This contract marked a significant vote of confidence in his abilities and potential contribution to the Rams defense.
Playing Style and Strengths
Fields is known for his versatility along the second level of the defense. His experience playing both outside linebacker and traditional linebacker positions gives defensive coordinators flexibility in how they deploy him. He demonstrates solid instincts in reading plays, which helps him diagnose opposing offenses and react quickly to the ball. His special teams experience has made him a reliable contributor in coverage units, a trait that NFL coaches value in depth players.
Notable Events and Milestones
Fields reached several milestones during his early NFL career. His first seasons in Cleveland allowed him to accumulate meaningful statistics while learning the professional game. The transition to Los Angeles represented a fresh start and an opportunity to continue his development in a different defensive environment. His ability to bounce back from the 2024 injury and secure a reserve/future contract demonstrates his resilience and determination to maintain his NFL career.
Tony Fields II Career Statistics
Across his first four seasons in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and Los Angeles Rams, Fields has demonstrated consistent contribution on special teams and defense. His tackle production and turnover-creating ability have been highlights of his professional career.
NFL Career Highlights
Fields’ rookie contract period with the Browns from 2021 to 2024 saw him establish himself as a solid NFL contributor. He accumulated 88 total tackles while also forcing one fumble and recovering two fumbles. His two defensive touchdowns highlight his ability to make game-changing plays when the opportunity arises. The consistency of his production across multiple seasons reflects his reliability and football intelligence.
College Achievements
Prior to his NFL career, Fields earned significant recognition during his college years. His standout senior season at West Virginia earned him Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors. He was named to the All-Big 12 Conference football team and received Reese’s Senior Bowl All-America First-team recognition. These accolades demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level against quality competition.
| Season | Team | Total Tackles | Forced Fumbles | Fumble Recoveries | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Cleveland Browns | Est. 20+ | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2022 | Cleveland Browns | Est. 25+ | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2023 | Cleveland Browns | Est. 25+ | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2024 | Cleveland Browns / LA Rams | Est. 15+ | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Tony Fields II Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Tony Fields II was born into a family with notable artistic connections. His mother, LeMisha Grinstead, is a well-known singer, which gave Tony a unique upbringing that blended the worlds of sports and entertainment. This background provided him with visibility and different perspectives on professional careers from an early age.
Personal Life
Fields maintains connections to both his athletic and family roots. He grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he attended Desert Pines High School before embarking on his football career. While he keeps much of his personal life private, his athletic lineage in football has been established through his own achievements. He continues to engage with fans through social media platforms.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a new chapter for Tony Fields II with the Los Angeles Rams. After signing his reserve/future contract in January 2025, Fields entered the offseason program working to solidify his place in the Rams linebacker rotation. His experience from three seasons with the Browns provided him with a strong foundation of NFL knowledge and expectations. The Rams defense offers him an opportunity to showcase his versatility in a different system while competing for expanded roles on defense and special teams.
Fields’ journey through adversity, including his 2024 injury and subsequent recovery, has shaped his approach to the game. Teams value players who can overcome setbacks and maintain their performance levels. His ability to land with the Rams and earn a future contract demonstrates the resilience that NFL organizations seek in roster depth players. As the 2025 season progresses, Fields aims to build on his career statistics while contributing to a Rams defense looking to compete at a high level.
The Rams coaching staff will look for Fields to provide stability on special teams while developing his role in the defensive packages. His track record of producing turnovers and making plays in key situations makes him a valuable depth piece for the roster. The 2025 season represents an important opportunity for Fields to establish himself as a long-term NFL contributor.