From Super Bowl Champ to Prison Cell: Ex-Eagle Wendell Smallwood's Fall!

By: Marcelo Colombo Published On: 19/09/2025

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Wendell Smallwood Jr., a former Philadelphia Eagles running back who once tasted Super Bowl glory, has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for defrauding COVID-19 relief programs. The Delaware native admitted to stealing $645,000 from programs designed to help businesses and employees survive the pandemic, as well as defrauding the IRS.

A Super Bowl Ring and a Descent into Crime

Smallwood's career peaked with a Super Bowl ring in 2017 as a reserve running back for the Eagles. After being cut by the Eagles in 2019, he spent time with Washington and the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, as COVID-19 swept the nation in 2020, Smallwood turned to criminal activity.

Prosecutors stated that Smallwood orchestrated three schemes between 2020 and 2023, stealing over $600,000 from the federal government. These schemes involved submitting fraudulent applications for non-existent or defunct companies, resulting in Smallwood personally profiting at least $200,000. He also submitted $110,000 worth of false tax returns for others, receiving kickbacks in the process.

Apology and Restitution

In court, Smallwood apologized for his actions, stating he felt he let down the community and those who loved him. In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Richard G. Andrews ordered Smallwood to repay the full $645,000 to the government. Smallwood, who earned approximately $500,000 in NFL paychecks during the period he was committing the fraud, will not report to prison until December.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of exploiting government assistance programs and the swift justice that can follow. The former Super Bowl champion's fall from grace is a cautionary tale for all.