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Brief Introduction of Lincoln Kienholz
Lincoln Kienholz is a promising American college football quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Hailing from Pierre, South Dakota, he has garnered significant attention for his exceptional athleticism and multi-sport prowess, having excelled in football, basketball, and baseball at T. F. Riggs High School. In high school, he set a new standard for quarterbacks in South Dakota, becoming the state’s all-time passing leader. His remarkable senior year, where he threw for 3,422 yards and 46 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,435 yards and 24 touchdowns, earned him the prestigious title of USA Today’s National Athlete of the Year in 2023. Initially committed to the University of Washington, Kienholz ultimately chose to play for Ohio State University, joining one of the most competitive quarterback rooms in college football. He continues to develop his skills with the Buckeyes, contributing to the team and gaining valuable experience at the collegiate level.
Lincoln Kienholz Overview
| Full Name | Lincoln Kienholz |
| Date of Birth | December 9, 2004 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 20 |
| Birthplace | Pierre, South Dakota, U.S. |
| Profession | College Football Quarterback |
| Husband/Wife | Not publicly available |
| Family | Parents: Peter and Kacy Kienholz; Siblings: Brogan, Lola, and Miah |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Isabelle Welker |
| Net Worth | Estimated $125,000 |
Early Life and Education of Lincoln Kienholz
Lincoln Kienholz was born and raised in Pierre, South Dakota. His parents are Peter and Kacy Kienholz. Interestingly, football was not his first love; his mother, Kacy, recalled a moment in his early playing days where a hard hit made it his “least favorite sport.” Despite this, his parents supported his athletic journey. Kienholz attended T. F. Riggs High School, where he became a celebrated three-sport athlete, making a significant impact in football, basketball, and baseball. His talent was evident early on, not just on the gridiron, but also on the basketball court as a first-team all-state selection and on the baseball diamond. He is currently a student at Ohio State University, majoring in Real Estate and Urban Analysis, and has been recognized as an OSU Scholar-Athlete.
Lincoln Kienholz’s Career
Lincoln Kienholz’s football career is marked by a meteoric rise through high school and his entry into the high-stakes world of college football. At T.F. Riggs High School, he was a dominant force, leading his team to three consecutive state championships. As a senior, he put up staggering numbers, passing for 3,422 yards with 46 touchdowns and only six interceptions, while also rushing for 1,435 yards and 24 touchdowns. This historic performance made him the all-time passing leader in South Dakota high school football history. His exceptional abilities earned him numerous accolades, including being named the MaxPreps South Dakota High School Player of the Year.
Initially committing to the University of Washington, Kienholz later flipped his commitment to Ohio State University, a testament to the allure of their renowned quarterback development program. He enrolled in June 2023 and entered a competitive quarterback room as a third-string player behind more experienced teammates. Kienholz saw his first collegiate action against Michigan State, completing two of three passes. A more significant opportunity arose in the 2023 Cotton Bowl Classic, where an injury to a teammate thrust him into a more prominent role. Though the Buckeyes ultimately lost the game, the experience was invaluable for the young quarterback. He continues to be a part of the Ohio State program, competing for a starting position and earning academic honors along the way.
Lincoln Kienholz Personal Life & Family
Lincoln Kienholz comes from a supportive family background. His parents are Peter and Kacy Kienholz, who have been instrumental in his athletic journey. He has three siblings: Brogan, Lola, and Miah. His father, Peter, and mother, Kacy, both attended Southwest Minnesota State. Kienholz is in a relationship with Isabelle “Bella” Welker. The couple has been dating since May 2022. Welker is also a student at Ohio State University, where she is studying Health Science with a minor in Financial Planning. She is also a model and was crowned Miss South Dakota Teen USA in 2022. Kienholz is known for being a quintessential “small-town kid” who enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and hunting.
Awards and Achievements of Lincoln Kienholz
- USA Today’s National Athlete of the Year (2023)
- South Dakota’s all-time high school passing leader
- Three-time 11AA state champion with T.F. Riggs High School
- Three-time Most Valuable Player of the 11AA state championship game
- MaxPreps South Dakota High School Player of the Year (2022)
- First-team all-state selection in basketball
- Selected to play in the 2023 All-American Bowl
- OSU Scholar-Athlete (2023, 2024)
- Academic All-Big Ten Conference (2024)
Lincoln Kienholz Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Lincoln Kienholz’s estimated net worth is approximately $125,000. This wealth is primarily derived from Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and his athletic scholarship at Ohio State University. While he does not earn a traditional salary as a college athlete, his scholarship covers significant expenses such as tuition, housing, and meals. His income is further supplemented by endorsement deals with various brands. He has secured NIL partnerships with companies like Tommy John, Pursuit, Byers Auto, and The 1870 Society.
Legacy and Influence
Despite his youth, Lincoln Kienholz has already crafted a significant legacy, particularly in his home state of South Dakota. By shattering the state’s all-time passing record, he has set a new benchmark for high school football players. He is only the second player from South Dakota to have ever signed with the Ohio State Buckeyes football program, a noteworthy achievement that highlights his exceptional talent. His success as a multi-sport athlete serves as an inspiration for young athletes, demonstrating the benefits of versatility. At Ohio State, he is part of a program known for producing NFL-caliber quarterbacks, and his continued development is being closely watched. His decision to compete in a highly competitive environment at Ohio State speaks to his ambition and confidence in his abilities.
Interesting Facts about Lincoln Kienholz
- He was a standout three-sport athlete in high school, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball.
- In his junior year of high school baseball, he had a batting average of .472 and a 1.24 ERA as a pitcher.
- During his junior year of basketball, he averaged 19.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.
- His high school coach first noticed his athletic potential when Kienholz was a seventh-grader participating in cross country.
- He is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys hunting and fishing.
- He is only the second football player from South Dakota to sign with Ohio State.
Controversies
There are no publicly known controversies associated with Lincoln Kienholz.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – @lincoln.kienholz
- Twitter – @lincolnkienholz
- YouTube – Information not disclosed.
Final Words about Lincoln Kienholz
Lincoln Kienholz stands as a testament to talent, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. From his record-setting days as a high school phenom in South Dakota to his current position as a quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, his journey has been one of continuous growth and adaptation. His decision to join one of the nation’s premier college football programs underscores his determination to compete at the highest level. As he continues to vie for a starting role at Ohio State, his development will be a key storyline to follow. With a strong foundation of athleticism, a proven track record of success, and a supportive personal life, Lincoln Kienholz’s future in football appears incredibly bright, carrying the hopes of his home state and the expectations of a storied football program.