#215 2X NFR Qualifier and 2025 Top Gun Winner TJ Gray

In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with Wrangler NFR qualifier and 2025 Top Gun winner T.J. Gray fresh off a career-defining season. T.J. reflects on his second trip to the Wrangler NFR, crossing the million-dollar mark in earnings, and winning over $300,000 in Las Vegas after entering the Finals with $180,000 already won. He talks about how dramatically the money in rodeo has changed over the years—and jokes that there's still somehow a hole in his wallet.

T.J. shares how he's kept life grounded since Vegas, putting most of his winnings into a new home with his fiancée while taking some time to heal up and recharge for the 2026 season. He opens up about his simple approach to competition: no scoreboard watching, no standings obsession—just one bull at a time. From daily recovery routines to joking that his spirit animal is a sloth because he likes to move slow and stay relaxed, T.J. gives listeners an honest look at what keeps him ready to perform.

He also tells stories about advice from Sage Kimzey, learning the ropes from his older brother, growing up watching bull riding legends like J.W. Harris on VHS tapes, and why mastering the little bulls helps make the big ones easier. With insight, humor, and the mindset of a champion, this episode is a must-listen for rodeo fans everywhere.