Ryan Rehkow Bio
Ryan Rehkow is an American professional football punter currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Brigham Young University (BYU) and entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024. Rehkow quickly established himself with record-setting performances and notable accolades early in his professional career.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Rehkow was born on September 11, 1998, in Veradale, Washington, USA. He grew up in Veradale and attended Central Valley High School in Spokane Valley, Washington, where he lettered in both football and basketball. His early exposure to sports laid the foundation for his athletic career.
Rehkow committed to play college football for the BYU Cougars after high school. His upbringing in Washington and participation in multiple sports contributed to his development as a versatile athlete.
Path to American Football
At BYU, Rehkow began his college football career as a punter, making his first punt in the 2020 season opener against Navy, which traveled 56 yards. Over the next few seasons, he set several school records, including an 83-yard punt against Arizona State in 2021. His consistent performance earned him recognition on the Ray Guy Award watch list and independent accolades such as the Pro Football Network punter of the year in 2021.
Rehkow’s college career was marked by steady improvement and notable achievements, culminating in a strong senior season in 2023 where he averaged 48.3 yards per punt and earned second-team All-Big 12 honors. After the 2023 season, he declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Ryan Rehkow Career
Early Career (2024)
Ryan Rehkow was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Kansas City Chiefs following the 2024 NFL Draft. Although he was released by the Chiefs in June 2024, his professional journey was just beginning.
Shortly after, Rehkow signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in July 2024. He won the starting punter job as a rookie and secured a spot on the Bengals’ 53-man roster, marking a significant milestone early in his NFL career.
Cincinnati Bengals Era (2024–Present)
Rehkow made an immediate impact with the Bengals in his NFL debut on September 8, 2024. He set the NFL record for gross punt average in a single game with a 64.5-yard average on four punts, surpassing the previous record set in 2023. Additionally, his 80-yard punt was the longest in Bengals franchise history.
His outstanding rookie season earned him a place on the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) All-Rookie Team. In February 2025, Rehkow signed a two-year contract extension with the Bengals, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities and future contributions.
Driving Style and Strengths
Ryan Rehkow is known for his powerful leg strength and precision in punting, which allows him to consistently deliver long punts with excellent hang time. His ability to place punts inside the 20-yard line and his strategic approach to field positioning have made him a valuable asset to his team.
Notable Events and Milestones
Rehkow’s NFL debut set multiple records, including the highest gross punt average in a game and the longest punt in Bengals history. These achievements highlight his immediate impact and potential for a distinguished career in professional football.
Ryan Rehkow Career Wins
While punters do not accumulate traditional wins like other positions, Ryan Rehkow’s career is distinguished by his record-setting performances and recognition through awards such as the PFWA All-Rookie Team and All-Big 12 honors during his college tenure.
College Highlights
At BYU, Rehkow set a school record with an 83-yard punt and consistently ranked among the top punters in the nation. His senior season average of 48.3 yards per punt and multiple accolades underscore his collegiate success.
Professional Highlights
In his rookie NFL season, Rehkow set the league record for gross punt average in a game and earned All-Rookie honors, marking a promising start to his professional career.
Ryan Rehkow Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Ryan Rehkow is the younger brother of former NFL kicker Austin Rehkow. His family has faced challenges, including his youngest brother Cameron Tyler Rehkow’s battle with leukemia at age 11.
Personal Life
Ryan Rehkow married his wife Hadlee in 2022. He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a mission in London, England. His faith and family play important roles in his life outside of football.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, Ryan Rehkow is poised to continue his strong performance with the Cincinnati Bengals. Having secured a contract extension, he is expected to be a key contributor to the team’s special teams unit. His early success and record-setting debut have set high expectations for his ongoing development and impact.
Rehkow’s partnership with the Bengals’ coaching staff and special teams unit will be critical as he aims to maintain his high standards and help the team in field position battles throughout the season.