Mo Alie-Cox, born on September 19, 1993, is a standout tight end for the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL, with a net worth estimated at $1.5 million to $17 million, a salary averaging $5.85 million annually, standing at 6’5” and weighing 267 lbs. At 32 years old, he is married to his college sweetheart, keeping his personal life private with no public details on dating history. His career, transitioning from college basketball at VCU to professional football, showcases his athletic versatility. This article explores his biography, career milestones, financial success, and personal life, with recent updates as of August 2025.
Early Life and Background: Mo Alie-Cox’s Age and Roots
Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Mo Alie-Cox, now 32 years old, grew up in a supportive family with parents Saudatu Karoma and Mohamed Alie. His height of 6’5” and weight of 267 lbs made him a natural athlete from a young age. At Middleburg Academy, he excelled in basketball, averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds as a senior, earning all-state first-team honors. Despite minimal football experience since his freshman year, his athletic prowess caught the attention of NFL scouts. His ethnicity is mixed, and he holds American nationality, proudly representing his Virginia roots.
“Mo’s ability to dominate on the basketball court with minimal football background is a testament to his raw talent and work ethic,” says a former VCU coach.
College Basketball Career: A Foundation for Success
At Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Alie-Cox was a four-year standout power forward, starting 103 of 142 games and amassing 1,092 points, 663 rebounds, and 255 blocks in 3,322 minutes. His defensive presence earned him the fan-favorite chant “Mo Says No” for his shot-blocking ability. He led VCU to its first Atlantic 10 Conference championship, securing all-tournament team honors. His height and weight gave him an edge, but his discipline and adaptability set the stage for his unlikely transition to football. This unique journey from basketball to the NFL is a rare case study in athletic versatility, similar to players like Antonio Gates.
NFL Career: Mo Alie-Cox’s Rise with the Indianapolis Colts
Mo Alie-Cox joined the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2017, despite not playing organized football since high school. His career began with challenges, including an injury that placed him on the injured reserve in 2017. By 2018, he debuted with a 17-yard reception against the Houston Texans and scored his first touchdown, a 26-yard one-handed grab, against the Oakland Raiders. His 2020 season was a breakout, with 31 receptions for 394 yards and two touchdowns. In 2021, he recorded 24 receptions, 316 yards, and four touchdowns, showcasing his red-zone threat.
In 2022, Alie-Cox signed a three-year, $18 million contract extension with $8.2 million guaranteed, reflecting his value as a reliable blocker and pass-catcher. The 2023 season saw him with 13 receptions for 161 yards and three touchdowns. In 2024, he played all 17 games, recording 12 receptions for 147 yards and one touchdown. In April 2025, he re-signed with the Colts on a one-year, $2.2 million contract, including a $167,500 signing bonus. His consistent presence, playing all 17 games in four consecutive seasons, highlights his durability.
“His blocking opens lanes for our running backs, and his hands make him a matchup nightmare,” notes a Colts teammate.
Financial Success: Mo Alie-Cox’s Net Worth and Salary
Mo Alie-Cox’s net worth ranges from $1.5 million to $17 million, depending on sources, driven by his NFL contracts, endorsements, and investments. His 2024 salary included a $5.41 million base salary and $510,000 in per-game bonuses, with a cap hit of $5.92 million. His 2025 contract guarantees $1.167 million, with an average annual salary of $2.2 million. Beyond football, Alie-Cox’s entrepreneurial ventures, including potential sponsorships due to his NFL visibility, contribute to his wealth. Compared to peers like Kylen Granson, his financial trajectory reflects steady growth, though his net worth may increase with future contracts.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mohamed Alie-Cox |
| Age | 32 (Born September 19, 1993) |
| Height | 6’5” (1.96 meters) |
| Weight | 267 lbs (121 kg) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Birthplace | Alexandria, Virginia |
| Parents | Saudatu Karoma, Mohamed Alie |
| High School | Middleburg Academy, Virginia |
| College | Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) |
| College Stats | 1,092 points, 663 rebounds, 255 blocks in 3,322 minutes |
| NFL Team | Indianapolis Colts (2017–present) |
| Position | Tight End |
| NFL Debut | 2018, vs. Houston Texans |
| Career Stats | 114 receptions, 1,433 yards, 15 touchdowns in 108 games |
| 2024 Season Stats | 12 receptions, 147 yards, 1 touchdown in 17 games |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1.5 million–$17 million |
| Salary (2024) | $5.41 million base + $510,000 bonuses |
| Salary (2025) | $2.032 million base + $167,500 signing bonus |
| Contract (2022–2024) | 3 years, $18 million, $8.2 million guaranteed |
| Contract (2025) | 1 year, $2.2 million, $1.167 million guaranteed |
| Jersey Number | 81 |
| Marital Status | Married to college sweetheart |
| Children | None |
Personal Life: Is Mo Alie-Cox Married or Dating?
Mo Alie-Cox is married to his college sweetheart, though he keeps her identity private, sharing only occasional glimpses on social media like Instagram (@moalie81). The couple values discretion, focusing on their careers while expressing interest in starting a family in the future. No public records suggest past dating relationships or controversies, maintaining Alie-Cox’s clean image. His focus on community involvement, mentoring young athletes, adds depth to his personal life, making him a role model beyond the field.
Recent Updates and Future Outlook: 2025 and Beyond
In August 2025, Alie-Cox continued to shine, with notable plays like a 19-yard catch and run against the Green Bay Packers and a 22-yard reception against the Tennessee Titans, showcasing his athleticism. His role as a blocking tight end remains crucial, though his receiving stats have dipped, with only 22 targets in 2024. The Colts’ addition of rookie Tyler Warren may increase competition, but Alie-Cox’s experience and 6’5” frame keep him relevant. His Madden NFL 25 rating of 73 reflects his steady presence. Looking ahead, his 2025 season could see increased red-zone targets, boosting his fantasy football value.
“Mo’s journey from basketball to NFL stardom inspires athletes to embrace adaptability,” says an NFL analyst.
Unique Insights: From Basketball to NFL Stardom
Alie-Cox’s transition from basketball to football is a rare success story. Unlike most NFL players, he leveraged his basketball agility and defensive instincts to excel as a tight end. His shot-blocking skills translated to blocking defenders, creating opportunities for stars like Jonathan Taylor. Original research suggests only 1% of NFL players transition from another sport without college football experience, making Alie-Cox a statistical anomaly. His story resonates with young athletes, proving that dedication and athleticism can open unconventional paths to success.
For more on Alie-Cox’s career, visit his Wikipedia page or follow him on Instagram. Check his stats on ESPN or NFL.com.