Desmond Howard is synonymous with greatness in college and professional football. From his time as a star at the University of Michigan to his long NFL career, Howard earned a reputation as the most exciting player ever to play the game. While best known for his electrifying wide receiving and return specialist abilities, Howard’s legacy reaches beyond the field as he has made a successful jump to broadcasting. As of 2024, Desmond Howard Net Worth is estimated at $14 million, reflecting the success of his career both on and off the field. This article explores just how Howard got so much money, revealing details about his career, endorsements, and other endeavours.
Early Life, Early Career
Desmond Howard’s Early Career
Cleveland, Ohio May 15, 1970, Desmond Howard was born in Cleveland, Ohio and had a love for the game from an early age. He graduated from Saint Joseph High School in Cleveland, where he was an all Ohio football and track star. His remarkable athletic talent took him to the University of Michigan, where he starred for the Michigan Wolverines.
College Success
Howard’s college days were characterized by parts of the electric plays and parts game changing performances. He played for the University of Michigan from 1989-1991 and was a consensus All-American in 1991. His foremost claim to fame arrived in 1991 when he collected the coveted Heisman Trophy, the award given to the best player in the nation.
Howard had a great reputation for being a jack of all trades on the field, as he contributed in kick return, caught passes, and played running back as well. Winning the Heisman clinched his name in the college football hall of fame and a comfortable life in the pros.
Transition to the NFL
NFL Draft and Early Years
After winning the Heisman, Desmond Howard was drafted 4th overall in the 1st round of the 1992 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. Howard made his way to the NFL with expectations, but it took a few years for him to fully find his place. He had played for the Washington Redskins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Oakland Raiders in his career.
Despite failing to match his high draft pedigree among wide receivers, Howard carved out a role as a dynamic returner that defined his NFL life. He earned a reputation as an electric punter and kickoff returner.
Iconic Moment: Super Bowl XXXI
Howard enjoyed the best part of his career as a member of the Packers. In Super Bowl XXI, he helped the Packers defeat the New England Patriots. Howard also returned a kickoff for a touchdown and won Super Bowl MVP—which made him the first special teams player to ever do so. That performance is still hailed as one of the greatest individual performances in the Super Bowl’s history.
NFL Career Earnings
The College Football Hall of Famer Desmond Howard played 11 seasons in the NFL, where he was chiefly a return specialist. He played for the Washington Redskins (1992–1994), Jacksonville Jaguars (1995), Green Bay Packers (1996–1999), the Detroit Lions (2000), and Oakland Raiders (2002). Howard made around $9 million just from salary in his NFL career.
Howard’s experience as a wide receiver didn’t last long in the league but ultimately gave way to a successful career on special teams, the only place that allowed him to have such a long, productive career. And his Super Bowl MVP night was a nice bonus to his well worn return abilities that made him popular in the locker room.
Life After the NFL: On-Air and Business Endeavors
Transition to Television Broadcasting
Desmond Howard left professional football in 2002 and turned his talents to a broadcasting career, where he has enjoyed some success He emerged as a high profile football analyst and commentator, becoming a college football analyst for ESPN. Howard’s experience with the game and knowledge of it, coupled with his vibrant personality, made him a good fit for television.
His place on ESPN’s College GameDay established him as a respected football analyst in his own right, and his sagacious commentary has made him a stalwart of the network. Howard makes other appearances on a number of sports programs, providing expert analysis from a college football perspective.
Endorsements and Businesses
Along with his broadcasting work, Desmond Howard has taken advantage of his public persona with endorsements and business. He has worked with a number of major brands, including Nike and Gatorade, throughout his career. His athletic abilities and star power have made him a desirable figure for advertisers seeking to reach sports fans.
And Howard has been busy with charity work and hesitant cameos, not exactly hurting his stock either. These businesses, along with his lucrative broadcasting career, have netted him a large part of his net worth.
Net Worth Breakdown of Desmond Howard’s Net Income
Salary and Earnings from Football
As mentioned before, Desmond Howard made roughly $9 million in NFL salary over his career. While this is a large amount, it’s only one part of Desmond Howard Net Worth. Howard’s career post retirement has been instrumental in climbing his net worth.
Broadcasting and Media Appearances
Howard’s role as a college football analyst for ESPN is one of the most lucrative components of his financial portfolio. Specific figures aren’t made public, but it’s reported that ESPN pays its top analysts more than $2 million annually. This includes Howard, who appears on programs like College GameDay and Monday Night Football.
Endorsements and Other Projects
Although Howard will be firmly associated with the Los Angeles team, deals with major companies such as Nike, Gatorade, and others helped his wealth significantly. These partnerships, along with media appearances, have allowed Desmond Howard to achieve a diversified financial portfolio.
Real Estate and Investments
Howard’s real estate holdings are not widely publicized. However, he is known to be financially savvy and a strategic investor. Over the years, he has found numerous opportunities to invest his money. This includes earnings from his career and post retirement ventures. After such an exhausting career, it makes sense that he would ensure his financial security.
Personal life and philanthropy
Family and Personal Life
Desmond Howard is married to Kelly Howard and has two children. Howard is typically private, concentrating much of his efforts on family life and work. In his spare time, he travels and goes to football games and can often be found supporting youth football efforts at events.
Philanthropy
Desmond also does a lot of charitable work. He has volunteered with youth sports programs. He has also provided grants to initiatives promoting better education and health for underprivileged children. These efforts show his commitment to giving back to the community that supported him throughout his career.
Conclusion
Desmond Howard is a prime example of dedication and hard work. Desmond Howard Net Worth of $14 million reflects his commitment to both football and his post NFL career. From winning the Heisman Trophy to being named Super Bowl MVP, Howard’s football accomplishments laid the foundation for his wealth. He has also built a successful career in broadcasting, adding to his impressive financial portfolio. Transitioning from a football star to a respected analyst and businessman has secured his spot among the richest NFL players. As he maintains a broadcasting career and pursues numerous investments, Desmond Howard’s football legacy and fortune will endure for years to follow.
FAQ About Desmond Howard Net Worth
How much did Desmond Howard make in the NFL?
During Howard’s 11 NFL seasons, his career salary was approximately $9 million.
What is Desmond Howard’s net worth?
As of 2024, Desmond Howard’s net worth is estimated to be $14 million.
How did Desmond Howard earn his wealth?
Howard made his fortune as an NFL player and broadcaster, but also through endorsement deals and business ventures.
What Does Desmond Howard Do at ESPN?
Desmond Howard works as a college football analyst for ESPN, contributing to shows like College GameDay.
What was Desmond Howard’s most famous moment in the NFL?
Howard’s most famous moment was his performance in Super Bowl XXXI, where he was named Super Bowl MVP.
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