Steelers linebacker TJ Watt isn’t just crushing it on the field—he’s winning in life too, thanks to his wife, Dani Rhodes. The two met as college athletes and have been inseparable ever since, building a life full of love, adventure, and now, exciting family news.
From Dani’s days as a soccer star to her current role as a fitness guru and supportive partner, this dynamic duo’s story is straight out of a rom-com (but with way more touchdowns and goals). Let’s dive into all there is to know about the woman who stole T.J.’s heart and how they’ve grown together.
Who Is Dani Rhodes?
Dani Rhodes, born on April 8, 1998, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, has always been an athlete at heart. She excelled in soccer at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she played as a forward from 2016 to 2019. Known for her speed and goal-scoring ability, Dani was a standout player, earning accolades like Big Ten Forward of the Year in 2019 and being named to the All-America Second Team.
After college, she briefly played professionally for the National Women’s Soccer League’s Chicago Red Stars and later joined Þróttur Reykjavík, a top-tier club in Iceland. Her time in Iceland wasn’t just about soccer—it was an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes and family visits. However, in February 2023, Dani announced her retirement from professional soccer, ready to embrace new opportunities.
What Does Dani Rhodes Do?
Since retiring, Dani has focused on fitness and lifestyle content, becoming an influential figure on Instagram with over 71,000 followers. She shares workout tips, personal milestones, and glimpses into her life with TJ Watt. Her content resonates with fans, combining authenticity with her love for health and wellness.
Before her soccer career took off, Dani explored business, briefly interning as a Business Development Manager. She graduated with a degree in Life Sciences Communication, showcasing her versatility both on and off the field.
How Did Dani Rhodes Meet TJ Watt?
TJ Watt and his wife Dani’s love story began in 2016 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. T.J., already a football star, and Dani, a freshman soccer standout, quickly connected. Their bond deepened over the years, leading to a dreamy engagement in July 2021. T.J. shared the news on Instagram, calling himself the “luckiest man in the world,” while Dani expressed her joy at marrying her best friend.
The couple tied the knot in July 2022 in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, surrounded by family, friends, and teammates from their respective sports careers. Their wedding was a celebration of their shared journey and commitment to building a life together.
Dani Rhodes And TJ Watt‘s Growing Family
In September 2024, TJ and Dani announced they were expecting their first child, due in February 2025. The news brought waves of excitement from fans and NFL stars alike, further cementing the Watt-Rhodes family’s status as one of sports’ most beloved couples.
Dani’s Early Life
Raised in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Dani grew up in a tight-knit family with her parents, Deann and Dan Rhodes, and two brothers, Drew and Dylan. During high school, she shone in both soccer and basketball, breaking records and showcasing her athletic prowess.
Her older brother Drew, whom Dani describes as her “best friend and brother all in one,” and her younger brother Dylan, who she calls “the best younger brother a sister could ask for,” remain integral parts of her life.
