Knox News 40 under 40’s Todd Kelly Jr. took football skills to finance

Todd Kelly Jr., 30, Wealth Advisor, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

Todd Kelly Jr. was a defensive back for the University of Tennessee at Knoxville football team from 2014-2018 and kicked off his career with the Vols by making the 2014 Freshman All-SEC Team. He has since used his experience as an athlete to influence how he approaches his professional career.

Kelly is now a financial advisor and applies the same rigor and discipline he learned on the gridiron to make a difference in the community. He sits on several boards and started the TKJ Foundation to support underserved youth in Knoxville.

In 50-100 words, introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a husband, father of two and financial advisor with Merrill Lynch on the Cagle Cross Group, recognized as one of Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams. My work focuses on helping families and businesses build lasting financial legacies, but my passion extends into the community. I founded and serve as president of the TKJ Foundation, which impacts and supports local youth development, as well as serve on several Knoxville boards. Knoxville has given me so much, and I’m committed to giving back by creating opportunities for others to thrive.

When you reflect on your career so far, which achievement stands out most?

Starting the TKJ Foundation. Helping kids in our community see possibilities for their future and watching my own children begin to see that impact means more than any accolade. Our next generation is our future.

What is the greatest professional obstacle you’ve had to overcome and how did you overcome it?

Leaving athletics and starting fresh in finance was tough. I leaned on mentors, stayed teachable and applied the same discipline I learned on the field to my new career.

What will you focus on in 2026?

Growing the impact my wife, children and I have on the community and continuing to build meaningful relationships with the families my team and I serve at Merrill Lynch.

What is your biggest professional dream?

To create a legacy that outlives me. Growing both my advisory work and foundation into platforms that not only help clients and kids in Knoxville today but inspire my son and daughter to carry that mission forward.

What mistake did you learn the most from?

Thinking I had to do everything on my own. I’ve learned that surrounding yourself with the right team makes you stronger.

What motivates you?

My family and the opportunity to make a difference, whether that’s helping a client reach their goals or inspiring a kid to dream bigger. Through faith and perseverance, I want to positively impact as many people’s lives as I possibly can.

What is the most overrated piece of business advice you’ve heard?

“Fake it until you make it.” I’d rather show up prepared, authentic and honest. In order to pursue excellence, you must give your best effort daily and focus on the controllable outcomes.

What trait do you most want in a co-worker?

Dependability. You can’t put a price on someone who always shows up and follows through.

What about Knoxville would you like to improve?

More resources for underserved youth. Every kid should have access to the tools they need to succeed.

What don’t people know about you?

That beneath my strong exterior, I’m actually very emotional and compassionate. Once you get to know me, you’ll find I’m more of a teddy bear at heart.

• Thank you to: Makenzie Kelly (wife); Tenn Kelly (son); Makaiah Kelly (daughter); Rennee Kelly (mother); Todd Kelly Sr. (father); Clarke Kelly (sister); Mary Mullins Davis (grandmother)
• Years worked at current company: Three
• Degrees and certifications: Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and cellular and molecular biology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• Community involvement: Founder and President of TKJ Foundation since 2022; Board Member of Emerald Youth Foundation since 2022; Board Member of UT Athletics Letterwinner’s Club since 2023; Board Member of Nucleus Knoxville since 2023; Board Member of East Tennessee Historical Society since 2024; Board Member of Webb School of Knoxville Young Alumni since 2022

– Joanna Hayes