Michael Irvin: Sons | Son Football | Kids | What College Did He Go To

Michael Irvin stands as one of the most iconic figures in NFL history — a Hall of Famer, Dallas Cowboys legend, and beloved sports broadcaster. But beyond the glitz of his playing career lies a deeply personal life shaped by family, fatherhood, and a legacy that extends into the next generation. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look  Michael Irvin’s children — especially his sons — their involvement in football and academics, and the details of where they went to college. We’ll also highlight how Irvin’s own college experience set the foundation for a life of athletic achievement. 

1. Early Life and College Career of Michael Irvin

Before becoming a legendary wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, Michael Jerome Irvin was an exceptional collegiate athlete. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Irvin grew up in a large family and quickly made his mark on the field. He attended the University of Miami, one of the most prestigious college football programs in the country. There, he flourished under coach Jimmy Johnson, setting school records for career receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions. 

Irvin was a key figure in the Hurricanes’ 1987 National Championship season, known for a game-changing 73-yard touchdown that helped propel the team into the national spotlight. His performance earned All-American honors multiple times, establishing him as one of Miami’s most decorated receivers. 

After three standout seasons at Miami, Irvin declared for the 1988 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys and went on to build a storied professional career. 

2. Michael Irvin’s Family: An Overview

Michael Irvin’s personal life is defined by his role as a devoted husband and father. He married Sandy Harrell in 1990, shortly after his football career began. Together, they raised three children: Chelsea, Michael Irvin Jr., and Elijah. Irvin also has an older daughter, Myesha, from a relationship prior to his marriage. 

Children of Michael Irvin

Irvin is also a proud grandfather to several grandchildren — a role he often celebrates publicly. 

3. The Irvin Sons: A Closer Look at Football and Education

3.1 Michael Irvin Jr.: Following in Big Dad’s Footsteps

Of all his children, Michael Irvin Jr. is the most directly linked to football. Born on May 8, 1997, Michael Jr. grew up surrounded by the sport. After graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale — the same powerhouse program his father attended — he continued his athletic journey in college. 

College Football Journey

Michael Jr. committed to the University of Miami — a poetic continuation of his father’s legacy — and played college football for the Hurricanes. While he didn’t achieve the same level of fame as his father, his commitment to Miami carried deep meaning, connecting two generations of Irvins to one of college football’s most historic programs.

Later, Michael Jr. made the tough decision to enter the transfer portal to pursue a fresh chapter. He enrolled at Florida Atlantic University, where he continued his collegiate playing career. 

Beyond football, Michael Jr. has also showcased his versatility on the basketball court, highlighting his all-around athletic ability. 

3.2 Elijah Irvin: The Creative Son

Elijah Irvin, born in 1998, took a slightly different path. While he shares his father’s love for performance and presence, Elijah’s focus veered toward the arts and music. Performing under the stage name “Tut Tarantino,” he pursued a career as a rapper and creative artist. His lyrical themes are deeply personal and often reflect his unique perspective on life and environment, even humorously challenging his father about his upbringing. 

Although Elijah didn’t pursue college football like his brother or father, his creative pursuits underscore the diversity within the Irvin family. He’s a dad himself and often includes his family life in his stories shared with the public and media. 

4. The Irvin Daughters: Beyond Football

4.1 Myesha Irvin

As the oldest of Michael Irvin’s children, Myesha was born in 1990 before his marriage. She attended Texas Southern University, where she played soccer on a scholarship, proving that athletic excellence runs deep in the family. 

Myesha has embraced motherhood and frequently shares her family life on social media, often highlighting the close bond she shares with her father. 

4.2 Chelsea Irvin: Scholar and Achiever

Chelsea Irvin, born in 1995, has made her mark through academics and personal achievement. She graduated summa cum laude from Howard University, showcasing the Irvin family’s intellectual commitments beyond sport. 

Chelsea maintains a close relationship with her father, regularly celebrating milestones and achievements with pride. 

5. Michael Irvin’s Lasting Legacy and Family Influence

Michael Irvin’s legacy isn’t just built on his Hall of Fame accolades and Super Bowl championships — it’s also defined by the values he passed to his children. Through hard work, resilience, and embracing opportunities, his family continues to reflect the discipline and commitment that made him a legend. 

From football fields in Florida to college campuses, the Irvin children demonstrate a balance of athleticism, academic achievement, and creative passion. Whether it’s following in a father’s footsteps or forging a unique path, each has carved their own identity. 

Michael’s commitment to his family also became deeply personal in recent years, as he publicly shared his dedication to caring for his wife, Sandy Harrell, who battles early-onset Alzheimer’s disease — a testament to his unwavering loyalty and love. 

6. FAQs

Q1. How many children does Michael Irvin have?

Michael Irvin has four children — Myesha, Chelsea, Michael Jr., and Elijah — spanning varied interests from sports to music. 

Q2. Which of Michael Irvin’s children played college football?

Michael Irvin Jr. played college football at the University of Miami before transferring to Florida Atlantic University. 

Q3. What college did Michael Irvin attend?

Michael Irvin attended the University of Miami, where he became a star wide receiver and key contributor to the 1987 National Championship team. 

Q4. Did any of Irvin’s daughters attend college?

Yes — Myesha attended Texas Southern University, where she played soccer, and Chelsea graduated summa cum laude from Howard University. 

Q5. Is Michael Irvin a Hall of Famer?

Yes. After a legendary career with the Dallas Cowboys, Michael Irvin was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions to the game. 

Conclusion

The world knows Michael Irvin as a football great, but his story is equally rich in family, mentorship, and personal growth. From the University of Miami to the NFL, and from the football fields to family living rooms, his influence resonates across generations. Whether it’s by nurturing athletic talent in Michael Jr., supporting academic excellence in Chelsea, or embracing the arts with Elijah and Myesha, the Irvin legacy continues to evolve — powerful, diverse, and rooted in love.