We all love watching our favorite NFL stars make incredible plays on the field. But have you ever wondered how much money they’re earning off the field? Beyond the touchdowns and tackles, some players have amassed astonishing wealth. Here are 10 of the NFL’s all-time wealthiest players according to Celebrity Net Worth, who have turned their football fame into financial empires.
Roger Staubach
Roger Staubach’s $600 million fortune isn’t just from throwing footballs. After his retirement, he founded his own real estate company, which led to a $613 million payday when he sold The Staubach Company in 2008. Staubach’s NFL career earnings totaled less than $1.5 million over 11 seasons.
Fran Tarkenton
Starting from the Gridiron to Silicon Valley, Fran Tarkenton’s $300 million net worth has a surprising twist. Beyond earning $1.2 million in football, he founded Tarkenton Software, which netted $6 million when sold. Reportedly, he holds $100 million in Apple stock and $15 million in real estate.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady, who has a net worth of $300 million, is following. The 199th pick in the 2000 draft turned into a $473 million money-making machine. For perspective, Brady’s Brentwood mansion flip, building it for $30 million and selling it to Dr. Dre for $50 million, could fund a small city’s budget.
Peyton Manning
At the peak of his career, Peyton Manning was one of the highest-paid celebrities in the world. His total career earnings, combining NFL salary and endorsements, approach $600 million. Manning earned $18 million annually in salary and an impressive $40 million from endorsements during his football days.
Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers isn’t just throwing touchdowns; he’s tossing cash into his $200 million money box. He pockets $37.5 million annually—enough to buy a private island every season. In a single year, Rodgers raked in $90 million, plus his 2022 Packers deal earns him $50 million per year.
John Madden
At the time of his passing in 2021, Madden was worth about $200 million. The iconic coach-turned-commentator’s name became synonymous with video game football. John Madden was estimated to have earned approximately $2 million annually as a retainer from “Madden NFL” until his retirement in 2009.
Steve Young
NFL legend Steve Young has a net worth of $200 million. A three-time Super Bowl champion with the San Francisco 49ers, Young transitioned into business and managed a private equity firm. His flourishing business ventures have contributed immensely to his impressive wealth.
Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson has built an impressive net worth of $165 million, becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. After a decade with the Seattle Seahawks, he joined the Denver Broncos in 2022 with career earnings of $238.3 million in salary alone. Wilson ranks among the league’s top-paid quarterbacks.
Drew Brees
Over his career, Drew Brees earned $270 million in salary alone, complemented by $15 million annually from endorsements. After an $8 million deal with the Chargers in 2005, he secured a monumental 6-year, $60 million contract with the Saints, including $22 million in bonuses.
Eli Manning
With a net worth of $160 million, Eli Manning rounds out the list. He dedicated his 16-year career to the New York Giants before retiring in January 2020. By the time he stepped away from the game, Manning was the highest-earning player in NFL history, with an impressive $252 million in career salary alone.
