Joseph Carl “JC” Tretter Jr. is a former American football center who played nine seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He was also a prominent figure in the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), serving as its president from 2020 to 2024. Known for his intelligence, durability, and leadership, Tretter was a versatile and reliable offensive lineman for both the Green Bay Packers and the Cleveland Browns. His career was marked by a commitment to player advocacy, particularly during the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.
JC Tretter Overview
| Full Name | Joseph Carl Tretter Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 12, 1991 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 34 |
| Birthplace | Batavia, New York |
| Parents | Joseph and Cynthia Tretter |
| Wife | Anna Tretter |
| Children | Two |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Profession | Former NFL Player, Former NFLPA President |
| Net Worth (as of 2025) | Estimated in the millions, with career earnings over $44 million |
Early Life and Education of JC Tretter
JC Tretter was born on February 12, 1991, in Batavia, New York, to Joseph and Cynthia Tretter. He grew up in an athletic family in Akron, New York. His father, Joe, played tight end at Hobart College, and several of his uncles also played college football. Tretter attended Akron Central High School, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. On the football field, he was a three-year starter on both offense and defense, serving as a team captain in his junior and senior years. As a senior, he was named a second-team Class C all-state selection. Tretter also excelled in basketball, where he was a four-year starter and a three-time first-team all-league selection. He graduated as Akron Central’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder.
Following high school, Tretter enrolled at Cornell University, where he initially played tight end for the Big Red football team. After two seasons, he transitioned to the offensive tackle position, a move that would define his football career. He was credited with significantly improving the pass protection for Cornell’s quarterback, and as a senior, he was a unanimous first-team All-Ivy League selection and earned third-team FCS All-American honors. Tretter studied in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell, a background that would later serve him well in his role with the NFLPA.
JC Tretter’s Career
Green Bay Packers (2013-2016)
The Green Bay Packers selected JC Tretter in the fourth round (122nd overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft. His rookie season was unfortunately derailed by an ankle injury sustained during Organized Team Activities, which placed him on the reserve/physically unable to perform list for most of the year. He was activated late in the season but was inactive for the remaining games. Tretter saw his first significant playing time in 2014, appearing in eight regular-season games and two playoff games. Over his four seasons with the Packers, he showcased his versatility by playing at center, guard, and both tackle positions in 31 games.
Cleveland Browns (2017-2021)
In March 2017, Tretter signed a three-year, $16.75 million contract with the Cleveland Browns. He immediately became a cornerstone of their offensive line, starting all 16 games at center in his first season. His consistent and high-level play earned him a three-year, $32.5 million contract extension in 2019. With the Browns, Tretter was known for his durability, starting 80 of a possible 81 games over five seasons, with his only missed game being due to COVID-19 protocols. He was a respected leader in the locker room and on the field. The Browns released Tretter in March 2022.
NFLPA Presidency
In March 2020, JC Tretter was elected president of the NFL Players Association, succeeding Eric Winston. His background in industrial and labor relations at Cornell made him a natural fit for the role. He played a crucial role in the negotiations for the 2020-2030 collective bargaining agreement, which was ratified shortly after he took office. Tretter’s leadership was particularly vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. As co-chair of the NFLPA’s COVID committee, he helped establish health and safety protocols that allowed the 2020 NFL season to be played in its entirety without any cancellations. He was unanimously re-elected for a second term as NFLPA president in March 2022. His term concluded in March 2024. In October 2024, he was hired as the NFLPA’s chief strategy officer. However, in July 2025, Tretter announced his resignation from the NFLPA, citing the personal toll it was taking on his family.
Retirement
On August 25, 2022, JC Tretter announced his retirement from the NFL after a nine-year career. In his retirement announcement, he expressed pride in his accomplishments and stated that he was retiring on his own terms.
JC Tretter Personal Life & Family
JC Tretter comes from a close-knit family with a strong athletic background. His father, Joseph, played college football, as did three of his uncles. His parents, Joe and Cindy, were incredibly supportive throughout his career, often traveling long distances to attend his games. Tretter’s sister, Katie, also attended Cornell University. In February 2020, Tretter married his wife, Anna. She was a significant source of support, even encouraging him to run for NFLPA president and assisting with his election speech. The couple has two children. Anna Tretter is a top travel specialist and runs a boutique travel agency.
Awards and Achievements of JC Tretter
- First-team All-Ivy (2012)
- Third-team FCS All-American (2012)
- Inducted into the Cornell University Athletics Hall of Fame (2023)
JC Tretter Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, JC Tretter’s net worth is estimated to be in the millions. His career earnings from his NFL contracts totaled over $44 million. His first contract with the Green Bay Packers was a four-year, $2.57 million deal. He then signed a three-year, $16.75 million contract with the Cleveland Browns in 2017, followed by a three-year, $32.5 million extension in 2019.
Legacy and Influence
JC Tretter’s legacy is twofold. On the field, he was a highly respected and durable center, known for his intelligence and leadership. Off the field, his impact as the president of the NFLPA was profound. He guided the players’ union through the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, ensuring player safety while also successfully negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement. His dedication to player rights and welfare has left a lasting mark on the NFL.
Interesting Facts about JC Tretter
- He was a standout basketball player in high school, graduating as his school’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder.
- He initially played tight end at Cornell before transitioning to offensive tackle.
- His wife, Anna, is a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist.
- Tretter’s sister and three of his uncles also attended Cornell University.
- He enjoys competitive games like darts, backgammon, and video games in his leisure time.
- His favorite TV show is “The Walking Dead,” his favorite book is “The Great Gatsby,” and his favorite movie is “Law Abiding Citizen.”
Social Media Presence
JC Tretter maintains a presence on social media, where he has shared updates about his career and personal life. He has used platforms like Twitter to communicate directly with fans and to announce significant career milestones, including his retirement.
Final Words about JC Tretter
JC Tretter’s journey from a multi-sport high school star to a respected NFL veteran and influential NFLPA president is a testament to his hard work, intelligence, and dedication. As of 2025, he has moved on from his roles in professional football and the NFLPA, choosing to prioritize his family. His career, both on and off the field, demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a passion for advocating for his fellow players, leaving a significant and lasting legacy.