Richest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time - Top 10 Wealthiest
by Maivizhi A
Updated May 29, 2023
Richest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time
When it comes to the NFL, quarterbacks hold a special place of importance and influence. They are the leaders on the field, responsible for orchestrating plays, making split-second decisions, and carrying their teams to victory. Over the years, the league has seen exceptional quarterbacks who not only achieved greatness on the field but also amassed incredible wealth off it.
1
Roger Staubach
$600 million
2
Frank Tarkenton
$300 million
3
Peyton Manning
$250 million
4
Tom Brady
$250 million
5
Aaron Rodgers
$200 million
6
Steve Young
$200 million
7
Russell Wilson
$165 million
8
Drew Brees
$160 million
9
Eli Manning
$160 million
10
Joe Montana
$150 million
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Players
Net Worth
The financial success of these quarterbacks can be attributed to a combination of factors. Their exceptional performance on the field often leads to higher salaries and bonuses, while their marketability attracts numerous endorsement opportunities from major brands. Additionally, their popularity and success can open doors to various business ventures, ranging from restaurant chains to clothing lines, further adding to their wealth.
As a result, these quarterbacks have not only made their mark in the history of the NFL but have also built considerable fortunes along the way. Their stories of both on-field dominance and off-field financial success serve as a testament to their exceptional abilities, astute business acumen, and enduring legacy in the world of American football.
Top 10 Richest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time
These individuals have not only displayed unparalleled talent and skill, but have also managed to secure lucrative contracts, endorsement deals, and business ventures, making them some of the wealthiest individuals in the NFL. Let us see each of these Quarterbacks in detail.
1. Roger Staubach - $600 million
Roger Staubach is a former American football quarterback who played for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). He achieved tremendous success during his career, winning two Super Bowl championships and earning the nickname "Captain America" for his leadership abilities. Staubach's estimated net worth is $600 million, making him one of the richest quarterbacks of all time.
After his football career, Staubach made a successful transition into the business world. He established a real estate company, The Staubach Company, which specialised in tenant representation. The company experienced substantial growth and was eventually acquired by Jones Lang LaSalle, a leading global real estate services firm.
Staubach's entrepreneurial endeavours, coupled with his shrewd investments, contributed to his impressive wealth. Additionally, his popularity and marketability as a football legend allowed him to secure lucrative endorsement deals and speaking engagements. Staubach's financial success both on and off the field solidified his position as one of the wealthiest quarterbacks in history.
2. Frank Tarkenton - $300 million
Frank Tarkenton is a retired American football quarterback who played in the NFL for the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants. Tarkenton had a distinguished career, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and leading the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances. With an estimated net worth of $300 million, Tarkenton is recognized as one of the richest quarterbacks of all time.
Following his football career, Tarkenton ventured into various business ventures. He co-founded a computer software company called Tarkenton Software, which developed applications for the financial services industry. The company achieved significant success and eventually merged with KnowledgeWare, a leading software corporation.
Tarkenton's entrepreneurial pursuits extended beyond the software industry. He became involved in real estate and invested in several business ventures, including restaurants and financial services. Tarkenton's diverse investments and business acumen have played a crucial role in his wealth accumulation.
3. Peyton Manning - $250 million
Peyton Manning is a former American football quarterback who played for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos in the NFL. Manning is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, winning two Super Bowl championships and earning five NFL MVP awards. With an estimated net worth of $250 million, Manning is among the wealthiest quarterbacks in history.
Manning's financial success can be attributed to both his football career earnings and his off-field ventures. During his playing days, he signed several lucrative contracts and endorsements, which substantially contributed to his wealth. Manning's popularity and marketability made him a sought-after spokesperson for various brands.
Post-retirement, Manning has continued to thrive in the business world. He has invested in numerous ventures, including Papa John's Pizza franchises and several successful commercial real estate projects. Additionally, Manning has appeared as a television analyst and hosted his own television series, further enhancing his financial standing.
Manning's combination of on-field success, business investments, and media endeavours have propelled him to great financial heights, solidifying his place among the richest quarterbacks of all time.
4. Tom Brady - $250 million
Tom Brady, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, has amassed a net worth of $250 million. Born on August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California, Brady's football career has been nothing short of remarkable. He spent the majority of his professional career with the New England Patriots, leading the team to numerous Super Bowl victories. Brady's success on the field has translated into lucrative endorsement deals, contributing significantly to his wealth.
Beyond his impressive on-field achievements, Brady has established himself as a brand both on and off the field. His endorsement partnerships with companies like Under Armour, Tag Heuer, and UGG have been highly successful. Additionally, he launched his own lifestyle brand called TB12, offering a range of health and fitness products and services.
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Tom Brady has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent, leadership, and a strong work ethic. His remarkable success on the football field, combined with his business ventures, has propelled him to become one of the richest quarterbacks of all time.
5. Aaron Rodgers - $200 million
Aaron Rodgers, born on December 2, 1983, in Chico, California, has achieved great success as a quarterback in the NFL and has accumulated a net worth of $200 million. Rodgers is known for his incredible talent, precision passing, and ability to make clutch plays.
After being selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2005 NFL Draft, Rodgers spent his entire career with the franchise. He led the Packers to a victory in Super Bowl XLV and has received numerous accolades, including two NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards.
Rodgers has also benefited from endorsement deals with companies like State Farm, Adidas, and Sharpie, contributing to his financial success. His charismatic personality and on-field excellence have made him a highly marketable figure in the sports world.
Beyond football, Rodgers is passionate about philanthropy and has supported various charitable causes, including cancer research and youth development programs.
6. Steve Young - $200 million
Steve Young, born on October 11, 1961, in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a former NFL quarterback who accumulated a net worth of $200 million. Young had an exceptional career playing for the San Francisco 49ers from 1987 to 1999. He succeeded the legendary Joe Montana and continued the team's success, leading them to victory in Super Bowl XXIX.
Known for his agility, strong arm, and ability to scramble, Young was a dual-threat quarterback who revolutionised the position. He won two NFL MVP awards and was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times.
Following his retirement from football, Young ventured into broadcasting and became an NFL analyst for ESPN. He also co-founded a private equity firm called HGGC, which has made successful investments in various companies.
Steve Young's combination of athletic prowess, intelligence, and business acumen has contributed to his status as one of the richest quarterbacks of all time.
7. Russell Wilson - $165 million
Russell Wilson, a talented quarterback in the National Football League (NFL), has amassed a substantial fortune throughout his career. Known for his exceptional skills and leadership abilities, Wilson has consistently been one of the highest-paid players in the league. With an estimated net worth of $165 million, he has secured significant contracts and endorsement deals.
Wilson began his professional career in 2012 when he was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks. In 2015, he signed a four-year contract extension worth $87.6 million, making him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks at the time. He has since renegotiated his contract multiple times, including a four-year extension in 2019 worth $140 million, making him the highest-paid player in the league at that time.
Aside from his salary, Wilson has also enjoyed various lucrative endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Microsoft, and Amazon. These partnerships have further contributed to his wealth and marketability.
8. Drew Brees - $160 million
Drew Brees, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, has accumulated a considerable fortune over his career. With an estimated net worth of $160 million, Brees has enjoyed lucrative contracts and endorsement deals throughout his time in the league.
Brees began his professional journey in 2001 with the San Diego Chargers and later joined the New Orleans Saints in 2006. During his time with the Saints, Brees achieved tremendous success, including leading the team to victory in Super Bowl XLIV. His performance on the field earned him numerous accolades and substantial financial rewards.
Throughout his career, Brees signed several notable contracts, including a six-year, $60 million deal with the Saints in 2006 and a five-year, $100 million contract extension in 2012. In addition to his salary, Brees has been associated with various endorsement deals, such as PepsiCo, Wrangler, and Nike.
9. Eli Manning - $160 million
Eli Manning, a former NFL quarterback, has amassed a significant fortune throughout his career. With an estimated net worth of $160 million, Manning's success on the field and his endorsements have contributed to his wealth.
Manning spent his entire professional career with the New York Giants, where he achieved notable accomplishments, including leading the team to two Super Bowl victories, earning Super Bowl MVP honours twice. His achievements made him one of the most recognizable and marketable players in the league.
Manning signed several lucrative contracts during his career, including a six-year, $97.5 million deal in 2009 and a four-year, $84 million extension in 2015. In addition to his salary, Manning had endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Toyota, and DirecTV, further bolstering his earnings.
10. Joe Montana - $150 million
Joe Montana, a legendary quarterback who played primarily for the San Francisco 49ers, is considered one of the greatest players in NFL history. Throughout his career, Montana earned both fame and fortune, accumulating an estimated net worth of $150 million.
Montana led the 49ers to four Super Bowl victories, earning the Super Bowl MVP award three times. His success on the field contributed to his marketability and financial rewards. Montana played during an era when player salaries were not as high as they are today, but he still managed to secure substantial contracts for his time.
Montana signed several significant contracts during his career, including a five-year, $13 million contract in 1990. Additionally, he has been involved in various business ventures and endorsement deals, including partnerships with companies like Hanes, Skechers, and Sega. These endeavours have further enhanced Montana's wealth and legacy as one of the richest quarterbacks of all time.
Who is the Richest NFL Quarterback of All Time?
Roger Staubach, the former quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, has achieved an astounding net worth of $600 million, making him the wealthiest former NFL player on this list. Staubach's football career is widely regarded as one of the most successful in history. Not only was he a Heisman Trophy winner, but he also served in the US Navy before joining the Cowboys.
Following his retirement from professional football, Staubach transitioned into the world of real estate. He currently holds the position of executive chairman at Jones Lang LaSalle, a prominent real estate firm. Staubach's remarkable success in this field has solidified his status as the most prosperous former NFL quarterback in the country.
Staubach has attributed his decision to venture into real estate to the realisation that his football career could abruptly come to an end, emphasising the importance of having a backup plan. Despite not earning a substantial income solely from his NFL contracts, Staubach's entrepreneurial endeavours in real estate have propelled him to unimaginable levels of wealth.
Drafted in the tenth round of the 1964 NFL Draft, Staubach initially faced a slow start in his professional football journey. However, he eventually became the starting quarterback for the Cowboys in the 1971 season and led the team to remarkable success, including their first Super Bowl victory in 1972 and a second Super Bowl win in 1977.
Throughout his post-football career, Staubach has established ownership stakes in several lucrative businesses, further enhancing his financial standing. While some of his wealth can be attributed to his exceptional NFL career, his accomplishments in the realm of real estate have propelled him to the pinnacle of financial success, surpassing even the net worths of current NFL players.
Wealthiest Quarterbacks of All Time
The list of the richest NFL quarterbacks of all time showcases not only their on-field achievements but also their remarkable financial success off the field. These quarterbacks have leveraged their talent, marketability, and business acumen to amass significant wealth throughout their careers.
Roger Staubach stands at the top of the list with a net worth of $600 million. His transition into the real estate industry after retiring from football has been immensely successful, solidifying his position as the most prosperous former NFL quarterback in the country.
Other quarterbacks on the list, such as Frank Tarkenton, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Steve Young, Russell Wilson, Drew Brees, Eli Manning, and Joe Montana, have also made their mark in both the NFL and the business world. Their success can be attributed to a combination of high earnings from contracts and endorsements, as well as astute investments in various ventures.
These quarterbacks' stories serve as a testament to their exceptional abilities, leadership qualities, and long-lasting legacy in the realm of American football. They have not only achieved greatness on the field but have also built substantial fortunes, cementing their status as some of the wealthiest individuals in the NFL
Richest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time - FAQs
The richest NFL quarterback of all time is Roger Staubach, with a net worth of $600 million.
After retiring from football, Roger Staubach ventured into the real estate industry and achieved remarkable success with his company,.
Many of these quarterbacks have engaged in various business ventures, including software companies (Frank Tarkenton), real estate investments (Peyton Manning, Eli Manning), lifestyle brands (Tom Brady), private equity firms (Steve Young), and philanthropy (Aaron Rodgers).
Endorsements played a significant role in their financial success, as these quarterbacks' popularity and marketability allowed them to secure lucrative endorsement deals .
Factors such as high salaries and bonuses from exceptional on-field performance, and ventures outside of football all contribute to the financial success of NFL quarterbacks.