It’s difficult making your way into the NFL as a kicker. Kickers have gotten better and better since the 60s, and competition’s at a peak. A majority of them, like New England Patriots star Joey Slye, end up entering the league undrafted. But even that’s difficult, and you really have to prove yourself.

But resilience is something Slye’s used to. He witnessed it first hand when his brother, AJ Slye, was diagnosed with Leuekemia at the age of 18, and passed aged 20 a decade ago. Witnessing someone fight something so horrible but keep a smile on their face changed Slye. But love fosters resilience too, and he’s found it in his lovely wife, Brittaney.

Who is Joey Slye’s wife?

Brittaney Slye, born Brittaney Nealis, daughter of Pilar and Jason Nealis, both Virginia natives. Mrs. Slye’s an Aquarius, born on January 21st, 1996, and embodies the traits of her sign pretty well. She is intelligent, creative, and career-oriented, all while being there for her family. Brittaney graduated from Colonial Forge High School in Stafford, Virginia. Apparently, she met Slye when they were both in 7th grade, even though they attended different schools.

But it wasn’t until college that they started dating. Both Brittaney and Joey attended Virginia Tech, with Brittaney graduating with a bachelor’s in human nutrition, foods, and exercise in 2018. She then went on to complete her doctorate in physical therapy at Marymount University, finally completing her education in 2021.

She put in her time interning while at college and right after, with institutions in Virginia and the Washington D.C. area. It must have been hard work. She managed to find some time to work at her mother’s real estate firm, the Nest Real Estate Group, too. But at long last, she’s living her dream. Brittaney worked for a year for BenchMark Physical Therapy straight after her doctorate, before moving on to United Wellness and Sports Rehab in 2022. We hope her work as a physical therapist brings her satisfaction and joy.

When did Joey and Brittaney get married?

After several years together, Joey Slye and Brittaney Nealis finally tied the knot in April 2023. It was a lovely ceremony out in Charleston, South Carolina, presided over by a very social-media savvy pastor named Todd Gaston. Both families were present for the ceremony, but it wasn’t very publicized or hyped. Just a simple Instagram post from Slye letting the world know he was the ‘happiest man alive‘.

Things were going pretty sweet for the couple at the time. Slye had been with the Commanders for some time, and Brittaney was just settling into her job as a physical therapist. The bad news came at the worst possible time, of course. In early 2024, the couple had learned they were expecting, and Slye had signed up with the Jaguars. Sadly, they released him after they drafted Cam Little, leaving him unemployed and the family expecting a child.

Luckily the New England Patriots were looking to replace Chad Ryland, and Slye’s found a home with them. Though it’s only a 1-year-contract, Slye’s already impressed with a franchise record 63-yard kick. Hopefully, they’ll hold on to him for longer, and the Slyes can start building a family together. Just earlier in Novermber, the family welcomed young Palmer Memphis Slye into the world, giving them something to fight for. And sure, dad missed a bit of practice, but we’re sure it was worth it.