Let’s talk money- big money. The NFL is synonymous with huge paychecks, whether it’s the players dazzling us on the field or the owners making strategic moves behind the scenes. But here’s the kicker: the financial gulf between these two groups is way too much. While players rake in millions through contracts and endorsements, NFL owners sit on wealth so massive it makes players’ earnings look like pocket change.
Let’s dive into the numbers and meet the richest in the NFL.
NFL Owners with Insane Net Worths
1. Rob Walton (Denver Broncos)
Net Worth: $101.8 billion
Rob Walton is not just the richest NFL owner but also one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. As an heir to Walmart’s fortune, Walton’s wealth surpasses even the combined net worth of the NFL’s top players. In 2022, he made headlines with his record-breaking $4.65 billion purchase of the Denver Broncos. Walton’s financial empire is a testament to Walmart’s global dominance, making him an untouchable figure in NFL ownership.
2. Clark Hunt (Kansas City Chiefs)
Net Worth: $24.8 billion
Most of Clark Hunt’s wealth comes from his grandfather, H. L. Hunt, who made a fortune in the oil industry. The Hunt family has owned the Chiefs since Lamar Hunt purchased the Dallas Texans in 1963, moved the team to Kansas City, and renamed them the Chiefs. The initial purchase price was $25,000. Clark has led the Chiefs since 2006, after his father, Lamar, passed away. Under his leadership, the Chiefs have won three Super Bowls since 2019. The team is now valued at $4.3 billion.
3. David Tepper (Carolina Panthers)
Net Worth: $20.6 billion
David Tepper’s wealth stems from his hedge fund empire, Appaloosa Management. In 2018, Tepper bought the Panthers for $2.275 billion, briefly earning the title of the NFL’s richest owner. Beyond football, Tepper’s diversified portfolio includes investments in soccer, with ownership of Charlotte FC, showcasing his knack for maximizing profits in sports.
4. Jody Allen (Seattle Seahawks)
Net Worth: $20.3 billion
Jody Allen inherited her fortune from her late brother, Paul Allen, the Microsoft co-founder. As the owner of the Seahawks, Allen combines her wealth with philanthropic and technological ventures. Despite her low public profile, she’s an influential force within the league, steering the Seahawks with a strong vision for the future.
5. Stan Kroenke (Los Angeles Rams)
Net Worth: $16.2 billion
Stan Kroenk founded the Kroenke Group, a real estate development company, in 1983. However, his marriage to the Walton family, who own Walmart, in 1974 significantly boosted his financial position. Kroenke has been involved with the Rams since 1995 when he bought a 30% stake. He became the full owner in 2010 and moved the team from St. Louis to Los Angeles. The team is currently valued at $6.9 billion.
NFL Players and Their Fat Paychecks
1. Tom Brady
Net Worth: $250 million
Tom Brady’s illustrious NFL career spans over two decades, with hefty paychecks from the Patriots and Buccaneers. Add endorsement deals with Under Armour, Aston Martin, and his lifestyle brand TB12 Inc., and Brady’s fortune skyrockets. His ventures into Hollywood, including the film 80 for Brady, add another layer to his wealth.
2. Aaron Rodgers
Net Worth: $200 million
Aaron Rodgers is a master negotiator. His lucrative contracts, paired with high-profile endorsements like State Farm- where he’s dubbed the “Discount Double-Check King”—have solidified his financial standing. Rodgers also holds equity in the Milwaukee Bucks, diversifying his income streams.
3. Russell Wilson
Net Worth: $165 million
Russell Wilson’s contracts with the Seahawks and Broncos have made him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history. Endorsements with Nike, Amazon, and Bose boost his earnings, while his entrepreneurial ventures with his wife Ciara, including the Why Not You Foundation, add philanthropic impact to his wealth.
4. Drew Brees
Net Worth: $160 million
Post-retirement, Drew Brees transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting with a multi-million-dollar NBC deal. His investments in ventures like Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar and real estate ensure a steady income. Known for his charitable efforts, Brees has donated millions to hurricane relief and educational initiatives.
5. Patrick Mahomes
Net Worth: $90 million
In 2020, Mahomes signed a 10-year, $450 million contract extension with the Chiefs, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Mahomes earns additional income through endorsements with brands like Oakley, State Farm, and Adidas. He owns a $2 million home in Kansas City, which includes a gym and a pool. He also holds a stake in the Kansas City Royals, reflecting his interest in business.
NFL Owners vs. Players: The Money Game
The wealth disparity between NFL owners and players is staggering. Take Rob Walton, for instance. With a net worth of $101.8 billion, he could theoretically buy every NFL team and still have billions left over. By comparison, even the NFL’s richest player, Tom Brady, has a net worth of just $250 million- a mere fraction of Walton’s fortune.
Why the Gap?
- Diversification: Owners’ wealth stems from industries like retail (Walton), technology (Allen), and hedge funds (Tepper). Players primarily rely on football salaries and endorsements.
- Franchise Valuation: NFL franchises are cash machines. The value of teams has skyrocketed over the years. Jerry Jones, for example, transformed his $140 million investment in the Cowboys into a $10 billion asset.
- Generational Wealth: Many owners, like Walton and Allen, inherit their fortunes, ensuring long-term financial security. Conversely, players often earn their wealth during relatively short careers, with limited opportunities to amass generational wealth.
The Final Whistle
The NFL’s financial hierarchy is crystal clear. Players may dominate on the field, but owners hold the keys to billion-dollar empires off the field. While players’ salaries and endorsements are impressive, they pale compared to NFL owners’ diversified, generational wealth. In the money game, the owners truly run the show.
