The third season of Farmer Wants a Wife made its debut on March 20, 2025, featuring four single farmers on a quest for romance, choosing from a selection of eight women. Among these contestants is Jay Woods, a 25-year-old from Florence, Alabama. As noted on Duke University’s official website, Jay was born on April 15, 1999, and has an inspiring story that blends sports and agriculture.
Jay’s journey began at Florence High School, where he discovered his athletic talent on the football field. He continued his passion at Michigan University, where, over the course of three years, he not only excelled in football but also pursued a degree in kinesiology. In 2019, Jay transitioned to Duke University for graduate studies, ultimately earning a master’s degree in management.
From the Gridiron to the Farm: Jay Woods’ Remarkable Transition
Throughout his college football career, Jay showcased his skills in 46 games, making 75 tackles among his various accomplishments. Regrettably, an injury prompted him to reassess his future in professional football, leading him to return to his roots in agriculture. Today, he operates a successful hay and cattle farm on a sprawling 515 acres in Alabama.
In a recent interview with FOX54’s Rocket City News Now, held on February 9, 2025, Jay opened up about his career in farming. He mentioned that he has been committed to the agricultural lifestyle for some time, collaborating with his cousin, Ricky Simmons, to manage a large cow-calf operation while simultaneously selling hay.
Initially, the duo had a profit-driven motive for their enterprise. Jay reflected on a personal touch to his farming journey, sharing how he purchased a 15-acre horse property that once belonged to his late grandfather. This land has since been the foundation of his farming venture, providing space for various animals like horses, dogs, and chickens, all while he plans to expand his cattle operations.
“A few years back, my grandfather passed and he had a 15-acre horse operation down there about five minutes from where we do the big operation. When I moved back home from Duke, I was looking for a place to buy a house,”said Jay Woods.
Growing up in a farming family, Jay was surrounded by agricultural life from an early age at the family farm, Woods Lane. His rich experiences included raising animals and cultivating crops, but football had also played a significant role in shaping his aspirations. Despite his passion for the sport, injuries ultimately made him pivot towards farming, which he now views as a fulfilling career path.
During his time at Michigan, Jay had the privilege of being mentored by renowned Coach Harbaugh for three years before continuing at Duke under Coach Cutcliffe. Despite his ambitions to become an “elite competitor,”injuries to his shoulder, head, and knee ultimately steered him away from the sport.
“I love this game, but am I willing to sacrifice my body where ten years from now, or five years from now, I could hardly walk or lift my shoulder up,”revealed Jay.
Beyond the fields, Jay divulged insights into the often-overlooked lives of farmers. He also manages a role as a sales representative, which supports his farming endeavors financially. During the interview, he emphasized the importance of separating his farm’s finances from personal expenses to achieve better stability.
The conversation concluded with Jay reflecting on his deep-rooted faith. He identified faith, family, and future aspirations as the “three pillars”guiding his life. Raised in the church, he believes that his faith has granted him numerous opportunities, and he feels a profound duty to express gratitude to God for his blessings.
Don’t miss the latest episodes of Farmer Wants a Wife, airing Thursdays at 9 PM ET on FOX!