Charley Hughlett’s NFL journey is a testament to grit, patience, and perseverance, shaped early on by the values instilled by his family. Over a decade with the Cleveland Browns, he became one of the league’s most reliable long snappers, appearing in 155 games and recording 27 special teams tackles. Cut seven times before getting a chance to play, Hughlett stayed ready by working as a personal trainer, a dedication that eventually led him to the Browns and later the Philadelphia Eagles. Even sidelined by injury in 2024, he remains a professional on and off the field, committed to community and family. Let’s take a closer look at the parents who helped shape his drive and character.

Who is James Robert Hughlett, Charley Hughlett’s father?

Charley Hughlett was born in Tampa, Florida, to his mother and his father, James Robert Hughlett, known to family and friends as Jim. He attended Hillsborough High School, where his early life was shaped by the practical guidance and steady support of his father. James Robert Hughlett, who battled diabetes for more than 25 years, passed away in June 2021, leaving behind a legacy of determination, grit, and unwavering dedication to his family, values that clearly influenced Charley’s own journey both on and off the field.

What happened to him? All you should know.

After a long battle with diabetes, James Robert Hughlett peacefully passed away in his sleep in June 2021 at the age of 71. Charley shared the news on social media, posting a heartfelt obituary alongside family photos:

“This morning we lost my dad. He went peacefully in his sleep while surrounded by family. Rest In Peace. You will be missed.
James Robert Hughlett
1/15/1950 – 6/2/2021.”

James had battled diabetes for over two decades, a condition that increasingly affected his health during his later years.

What is Charley Hughlett’s father’s ethnicity?

James Robert Hughlett was born in Tampa, Florida, and was of American heritage. His son, Charley, also grew up in Tampa, a city known for its tight-knit community and love of sports, especially football. The city’s active sports culture, combined with James’s guidance, inspired Charley’s early passion for athletics.

From his father, Charley learned values of toughness, reliability, and humility, along with a multi-sport mindset. These lessons became the foundation of his NFL success, even though his early seasons were challenging.

How good was Charley Hughlett’s relationship with his father?

Charley Hughlett has always kept his personal reflections private, but his bond with his father, James Robert Hughlett, was unmistakable. Charley honored his father’s fight against diabetes by featuring the American Diabetes Association emblem on his cleats during the NFL’s “My Cause My Cleats” campaign, raising awareness about prediabetes and diabetic prevention.

Beyond that, Charley supported the Gunner Martin Foundation, teaching children water safety and drowning prevention, a testament to the values of kindness and service his parents instilled in him. The Hughlett family’s quiet strength remains the foundation of Charley’s character. His father’s honesty, toughness, and guidance continue to influence Charley, both on and off the field.

Even in death, James Robert Hughlett lives on through Charley’s actions, every game played, every cause championed, and every moment of service reflects the enduring impact of a father who was not just a parent but a life mentor.