Introduction
Kris Boyd is a name that has become increasingly prominent in the NFL—and not just for his on-field performance. The New York Jets cornerback, known for his tenacity on special teams and defensive plays, is currently battling a serious health crisis after being shot in Manhattan. This article delves into his football journey, the recent tragic incident, his financial status, and what Reddit fans are saying about him.
Early Life and Football Career
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Background: Kris Boyd was born on September 12, 1996, in Gilmer, Texas. He played college football for the Texas Longhorns, where he demonstrated his defensive prowess.
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NFL Entry: Boyd was drafted in the 7th round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings with the 217th overall pick.
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Professional Journey:
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Minnesota Vikings: He spent the early years of his career here, contributing significantly on special teams.
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Arizona Cardinals: In 2023, Boyd signed with the Cardinals but was eventually released.
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Houston Texans: Later in 2023, he joined the Texans’ practice squad and was promoted to the active roster.
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New York Jets: In March 2025, Boyd signed a one-year contract with the Jets.
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Performance & Style of Play
Kris Boyd is best known for his role on special teams rather than as a starting cornerback. According to ESPN, he has taken a large number of special-teams snaps in his career. His contributions on special teams highlight his value as a versatile, high-energy team player.
Injury and Recent Setback with the Jets
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Shoulder Injury: Boyd’s 2025 season was cut short when he was placed on injured reserve (IR) due to a shoulder injury sustained during a preseason scrimmage.
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Shooting Incident: On November 16, 2025, Boyd was shot in the abdomen following a dispute outside a Manhattan restaurant.
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Current Condition: He is in critical but stable condition at Bellevue Hospital, according to both ESPN and Sky Sports.
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Investigation: The NYPD is investigating. No arrests have been made so far, and a suspect reportedly fled in a BMW X8.
Net Worth
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Estimated Wealth: As of 2025, Kris Boyd’s net worth is estimated to be around $11 million, according to reports.
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Earnings Breakdown: Much of his income comes from his NFL contracts. His one-year deal with the Jets was reportedly worth $1.6 million, with a portion guaranteed.
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Endorsements: While he isn’t known for major sponsorship deals, minor brand partnerships contribute to his overall finances.
Buzz on Reddit
Reddit—a major hub for NFL fans—is abuzz with discussions about Boyd, especially following his controversial moments and recent shooting.
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After a playoff game with the Texans, Boyd famously threw his helmet and shoved his special teams coach in excitement. On r/nfl, a fan commented:
“It was a little 10-second thing … that’s not in my character.”
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Upon news of his shooting, several subreddits expressed concern and support:
“Shot and critically wounded in Manhattan … Praying for him man wtf ”
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In r/nyjets, fans reflected on his signing:
“Isn’t he the one that shoved his coach … In watching the game live … It was just one of those player-being-hyped-in-the-moment things.”
These Reddit threads highlight how fans see Boyd as both passionate and flawed — but deeply human.
Personal Life & Character
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Family Ties: Boyd comes from a family with NFL pedigree. Two of his cousins, Bobby Taylor and Curtis Brown, also played in the league.
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Resilience: He has spoken openly about his difficult childhood — losing his father and grandmother — and credits those struggles for shaping his resilient mindset.
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Faith: Known for his faith, Boyd described his sideline outburst as “not in my character,” calling it a brief lapse rather than a reflection of who he truly is.
What’s Next for Kris Boyd
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Recovery: His first priority is recovering from the shooting. Medical updates will be key in the coming days and weeks.
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Investigation: The NYPD’s ongoing investigation could bring clarity about what led to the shooting and whether it was targeted.
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NFL Future: Assuming he recovers, there will be questions about his role with the Jets, especially given his injury status and contributions on special teams.
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Legacy: How he comes back — both physically and in terms of public image — could define his legacy more than any on-field play.
Conclusion
Kris Boyd’s story is one of grit, passion, and challenge. From late-round draft pick to special-teams stalwart, his journey in the NFL has been anything but ordinary. But the recent shooting in Manhattan has added a new, serious chapter — one that transcends football. As fans, analysts, and his teammates watch and wait, Boyd’s resilience may again become his most defining asset.
