Garrett Wilson’s Parents: Who Are Candace and Kenny Wilson?

Garrett Wilson, the wide receiver is making a name for himself with the New York Jets. He got scooped up 10th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, and it’s been a wild ride ever since. His journey really kicked off at Ohio State University, where he was a total standout right from his freshman year. The NFL enthusiasts knew they had something special with him. His raw talent and steady gameplay made him a top pick.

Garrett Wilson, born on July 22, 2000, in the Windy City of Chicago, is smack dab in the middle of a lively family of seven. His parents, Candace and Kenny Wilson, sure have their hands full with five kids. Garrett’s got two older brothers, Donovan and Cam, and two younger sisters, Shea and Sydney. The Wilsons, a close-knit and energetic bunch, eventually made their way to Austin, Texas. That’s where Candace and Kenny raised their crew, creating a home that’s always buzzing with activity and packed with unforgettable family moments.

Garrett Wilson’s parents, Kenny and Candace, who immigrated to the U.S., share African-American roots. Garrett’s mother, Candace Wilson, has always been the backbone of the WR, the MVP of Garrett’s rise to fame. Candace is always there cheering him on from the sidelines. The professional recalls how once when he was throwing away some of the food, he came across two containers his mom had left with notes that urged Garrett to eat. The post was captioned, “Love you ma, i never question your effort.”

Like a true Mama bear, Garrett also revealed how when he was selected in the 2022 draft, his mom got offended. Not due to the selection but the way the broadcasters addressed the young player. He was called “freak” and Garrett recalled that his mom “didn’t like that one.” 

Meanwhile, his dad is to be credited for his athletic genes. Kenny Wilson, per sources, was a great baller during his high school days at Lake Travis High School. He averaged 21 points per game.  Not only this, he is to date ranked seventh on Davidson University’s All-Time high scorer list and earned All-Central Texas honors.

A ‘Heartfelt’ message from Garrett Wilson’s father

Garrett Wilson’s parents were ecstatic to see their son selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Wilson’s father brilliantly captured the moment in words to describe how it felt to have his son selected in the first round of the NFL Draft through a heartfelt video message.

Sending best wishes to his son via video, Kenny shared that this is just one step in his incredible journey, but it’s definitely a day to celebrate. Talking about the days when Garrett lived with the family, Kenny said that he still recalls the days when both of them would argue about LeBron vs. Jordan while watching games together. He misses him every day—things haven’t been the same since he left for college. He remembers all those days very well.

Feeling a little emotional while speaking about the birth of his son, Kenny realized how difficult things were when Garrett was born. He said, “When you were born, you were not so well, the outcome was not certain.” People from all over the country were sending prayers for his health. Kenny believes those prayers gave Garrett something extra special.

He had always told Garrett since childhood, “Your destiny was to be a great man, you were a kind and loving boy who has grown into a kind and loving man, a great friend, a good brother, a great son, and a tough competitor“—his dad was absolutely over the moon talking about him in the video. Kenny reiterated how he was immensely proud of his son.

With that, he delivered some valuable lessons for this young kid entering a competitive field. Kenny, with a voice full of emotions, said, “You have given us so many things to remember, I wanna give you a few things to remember too:

1) Choose good friends. One truth teller is worth 50 yes, man. The yes men always want something, true tellers risk it all and tell you the truth because they love you.

2) Anyone who deters you from your success and your destiny, no matter who no matter what, let them go.

3) Seek greatness which is your destiny, not wealth. If you’re great, wealth will come.

4) Seek influence, not power. Influence is a testament to your brain, your character, and your heart.

5) Own your mistakes, apologize, and move forward.

6) Seek respect, not popularity. Popularity is fleeting and ultimately childish. Respect sets you apart.

7) People will talk. People will say things. Don’t listen so closely, what people say is really just talk. What you do is really your character.

8) Stay humble, you are really great at this.”

As Garrett continues on his journey to the NFL, a large part of his success will continue to come from the solid support of his parents. And like his dad mentioned, “We are gonna be here to watch, witness, and love you. No pressure.” Thus, no matter what, his parents and siblings will cheer for this young professional as he scripts his own NFL journey.