Breece Hall, the talented running back for the New York Jets, has quickly become a fan favorite with his impressive skills on the field. However, behind every successful athlete is a supportive family that plays a vital role in their journey. In Hall’s case, his parents, Larhonda McDaniel and Raquel Guerra, along with his stepfather Jeff Smith, have been instrumental in shaping him into the person he is today.
From his early days to his rise as an NFL star, Hall’s family has been a constant source of love, encouragement, and guidance. Let’s delve into the lives of Breece Hall’s parents, exploring their backgrounds, relationships, and the values they instilled in their son.
Breece Hall’s family has a deep-rooted connection in the NFL
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On May 31, 2001, Hall was born to parents Larhonda McDaniel and Raquel Guerra in Omaha, Nebraska. However, the two had a strained relationship and finally separated ways. Hall grew up with his stepfather, Jeff Smith, who is a former professional American footballer.
Hall’s mom is Larhonda McDaniel. Although she had Hall with Raquel Guerra, the couple eventually split up. Instead, Hall grew up with McDaniel’s second boyfriend, Jeff Smith, a well-known football star. However, Smith is not the only member of Hall’s family to have made it to the NFL.
Kenton Keith, one of his cousins, also played with the Jets in 2004, thus it was a reunion for the family when Hall joined the squad. Keith would eventually spend a year with the Indianapolis Colts. Perhaps the most well-known member of Hall’s family is his third cousin, Roger Craig, a running back and three-time Super Bowl champion. He is one of the best players in San Francisco 49ers history, and he played a crucial role in the team’s famed dynasty in the 1980s.
The family, particularly Larhonda, has been very supportive of Breece Hall’s profession.
Larhonda McDaniel was “overwhelmed” on Hall’s achievement
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Does Breece Hall's strong family support give him an edge over other NFL rookies?
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In 2021, Breece Hall completed the regular season becoming the program’s first player since 1996 to record at least 250 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns in a single game. Hall also set an NCAA record for 24 consecutive games with a rushing touchdown. The talented rushing back powered Iowa State to a 48-14 win over TCU. He broke the previous record set by former NCAA star Bill Burnett. However, it was his touching moment with his family that dominated the headlines.
Hall was tearful as he approached his family at Jack Trice Stadium. He hugged his mother, Larhonda, as they embraced following his performance. They spoke briefly after what may have been his final home game.
“I was overwhelmed. It was a big moment for him and for the team and the fans. When I saw his tears as he was running toward me, I just lost it. He’s so humble, but to see him took my breath away.”
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All the feels ❤️ pic.twitter.com/HCHApBJl2G
— Iowa State Athletics (@CycloneATH) November 26, 2021
However, nothing is known about his relationship or time with his birth father because his relationship with and popularity as stepfather Jeff Smith dominated the news.
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Smith, a four-year NFL veteran, spent the majority of his time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Chiefs drafted him late in the 1985 NFL Draft, in the 10th round with the 257th overall pick.
Hall’s family has a significant contribution to his successful football career. Starting from helping him to be prepared to providing a never-ending source of motivation, Smith, McDaniel, and others in his extended family stood like strong pillars. McDaniel has been a rock at Hall’s side throughout his career, whether at Iowa State or in the NFL. While Hall’s connection with his father Raquel Guerra is private, his stepfather Jeff Smith has been essential in providing him with a successful start in his career.
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Does Breece Hall's strong family support give him an edge over other NFL rookies?