Football runs through Notre Dame’s Howard Cross III’s veins. Although he was born into football, his love for the game is natural. The Defensive lineman for the Fighting Irish was a multi-sport athlete before deciding to settle with football full-time in seventh grade. And if you’re wondering, yes, he was one of the big kids who played both on the offensive and defensive lines.
Well, initially, Cross III wasn’t great, but through his hard work and commitment, he has developed into a great player. Howard took his first steps in football at Saint Joseph Regional High School, where he started suiting up for their football team. After a successful stint at the school level, the defensive maestro selected Notre Dame as his next home.
Since then, the Fighting Irish and Howard Cross III have been with each other through highs and lows. His journey at Notre Dame started back in 2019, as a rookie with the hunger to prove himself at collegiate level. Cross III featured in four games that season and recorded a career-high five tackles in a spectacular performance against Midshipmen.
The 6-foot-1, 288-pounder hasn’t looked back since and has become a fan favorite. Apart from winning numerous accolades, he’s played some incredible games. Something that’ll be remembered by the Fighting Irish faithful for years to come. Let’s take a look at Howard Cross III’s life and get to know more about him, especially his life beyond the football field.
Who is Howard Cross III’s Mom?
Howard Cross III hails from Paramus, New Jersey, and is the son of Pia Cross and Howard Cross Jr. The Defensive Lineman is a formidable force on the field, and he couldn’t have been what he is today without the support of his parents, especially his mother. Pia Cross has helped her son through every step of his football career.
Interestingly, Howard Cross III has a twin sister, Bella Cross. Furthermore, she has taken a contrasting approach to her life compared to her brother and attended Honors College at the University of Alabama from 2019 to 2023. Bella has earned her degree in Arts in Communication and Public Relations from her LinkedIn profile. Pia, alongside her husband, has done a wonderful job raising Cross III and his sister Bella, as they both continue to excel in their respective fields.
Who is Howard Cross III’s Dad?
As mentioned, Howard Cross III comes from a footballing family. You might think, how? Well, his father is none other than Howard Cross Jr.! Former New York Giants tight end and an NFL star. Not only that, Cross III’s father suited for the Giants for thirteen seasons and was an integral part of the Super Bowl XXV winning squad.
The father and son duo shares a special bond, despite being an NFL star Cross Jr. never forced his son to follow in his footsteps. “My dad encouraged me to do anything I wanted to do, he didn’t push football at all,” said Cross III in an interview with northjersey.com. Instead, “he pushed golf, basketball, other sports he liked, but I liked football. I liked playing football.” Destiny had other plans as Cross III finally ended up playing football but with his own individuality.
Where did Howard Cross III grow up?
Howard Cross III grew up in his hometown of Paramus, New Jersey. He started his football journey here at Saint Joseph Regional High School, where he initially wrestled before playing football and became a defensive lineman for the High School’s football team. His dad’s experience was greatly helpful while growing up.
“If I need help, I will look up in the stands and he shows me what I should try,” said Cross III. “At halftime, he will come down sometimes and tell me I am doing good. He’s not like, ‘You can do better.’ He’s more like, ‘Good job, keep it up.” Howard was a great help to his son and also to the whole program. He helped nurture Cross III into a great talent as he was soon scouted by multiple colleges.
Who is Howard Cross III’s girlfriend?
As is usually the case when you’re a rising star in the football world, it’s only obvious to get attention. Howard Cross III’s case isn’t much different. The big man is always under the spotlight. However, he likes to keep his personal life under wraps. Well, he’s enjoying a single life as of now. How? You might ask.
Well, he hasn’t been spotted with someone nor has he dropped any clues anywhere on his social media. So, it’s safe to assume that the Notre Dame Defensive Lineman is single and focusing on making it to the NFL. And follow in the footsteps of his dad making him proud.
What is Howard Cross III’s Net Worth & NIL?
The new NIL Deals are making huge waves in College Football! Well, players all around are growing their wealth through endorsements, image, and likeness deals. So, how much does Howard Cross III make? Well, to get a clear picture, the NIL deal started two years after Cross III made it to the college circuit.
Now, after making a surprise decision to return for the sixth season at the Fighting Irish. The defensive lineman has amassed a good fortune from deals and has an NIL valuation of $524,000. However, surprisingly Cross III has just over 5,000 followers and has no advertisements on his account. With that being said, the defensive lineman continues his journey as he eyes an NFL spot after this season and is set and done.
The post Meet Notre Dame’s DL Howard Cross III: Parents, Girlfriend, and Other Details appeared first on EssentiallySports.
