Signing an NFL team contract is a dream of many football players – and not only for the potential fame and glory. With hefty deals on the line, money is also a big factor. Those who go high in the draft may even see signing bonuses in the millions.
Managing all of that sudden wealth can be a huge challenge, and not all players are known for doing it responsibly. Many are tempted to spend their earnings immediately on fancy cars and other luxuries.
But there are a few players who have managed to develop some good financial sense along with their athletic abilities. These four frugal NFL players have made smart choices that won’t leave them hanging when their playing days are over.
NFL Stars Doing It Right
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers may have captured the Super Bowl MVP after his performance in Super Bowl XLV, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t thrifty. With a net worth around $30 million, he can certainly afford to hire professional lawn care. Still, he insists on mowing his own lawn just like a regular guy. Rodgers has also been seen shopping at his local grocery store and dining out at ordinary restaurants instead of fancy eateries.
Rob Gronkowski, New England Patriots
Rob Gronkowski, better known as Gronk, may come across as an impulsive partier, but he is very responsible when it comes to financial decisions. In his book, “It’s Good to be Gronk,” he relates how he’s socked away all of the money he’s earned with the New England Patriots in the bank and lives on his endorsement deals. He still wears his favorite jeans from high school and doesn’t blow his earnings on expensive jewelry or fancy cars.
Giovani Bernard, Cincinnati Bengals
After netting a solid rookie contract worth $5.253 million with a $2.2 million signing bonus, Giovani Bernard is making bank as a running back for the Bengals. But he sees no need to blow it all on the finer things. He lives in a small apartment near Paul Brown Stadium and borrows his girlfriend’s mom’s minivan to get around town.
John Urschel, Baltimore Ravens
John Urschel, like most offensive linemen, is not a small guy. That makes his choice of ride – a 2013 Nissan Versa – almost comical. The Versa may be dwarfed by his teammates’ cars, but with a price tag of $9,000, it’s definitely a practical choice. Urschel also has a roommate to keep expenses low, and he currently lives on approximately $25,000 a year. He’s even thinking about life after the NFL and plans to earn a doctorate degree. Go on with your bad frugal self, Dr. Urschel.
NFL Players Saving That Green
Spending money is the easiest thing in the world – especially when you have a lot of it. But these four NFL guys know that their plush NFL days are numbered, and are saving for those rainy days ahead. Their wisdom and foresight make them excellent role models for younger players.
If you’re hoping to save a little cash yourself, head over to the clearance section on Fanatics.com for some swank, discounted NFL gear.
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Sources
- http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/award_sbmvp.htm
- http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2013/06/09/quarterback-aaron-rodgers-q-and-a-mike-mccarthy-/2404843/
- http://www.thesportster.com/entertainment/top-20-athletes-who-are-incredibly-cheap/?view=all
- http://www.forbes.com/sites/blakeoestriecher/2015/06/23/rob-gronkowskis-money-management-should-be-a-lesson-for-all-pro-athletes/#49f2d5e039fb
- http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/giovani-bernard-lives-simple-rookie-life-including-driving-223332867.html
- http://www.businessinsider.com/john-urschel-explains-why-he-drives-a-nissan-versa-2015-8
