Not every NFL star falls into the trap of reckless spending and flashy purchases. Some players treat their careers like a business and make their money work just as hard as they do on the field.
From smart investments to low-key lifestyles, these NFL pros proved that financial literacy isn’t just for Wall Street. Let’s take a look at NFL players who played the long game when it came to their bank accounts.
14. Josh McCown
He may have bounced around the league, but McCown quietly built up a nice nest egg. He’s always been praised for his frugality and thoughtful approach to life after football.
13. Andrew Luck
Before shocking the world with his early retirement, Luck was already planning for life beyond football. He saved a massive chunk of his earnings and chose peace of mind over flashy spending.
12. Calvin Johnson
Megatron didn’t just walk away from the game—he walked into a business empire. He’s invested in several ventures, including cannabis wellness, and he’s financially fine.
11. Kirk Cousins
Say what you want about his playstyle, but Cousins knows how to manage a bank account. He’s driven the same van for years and is notorious for saving rather than splurging.
10. Sam Bradford
People love to joke about how much money Bradford made, but he held onto it. He was the last big rookie contract before the CBA shift and didn’t blow it all on the way out.
9. Brandon Copeland
This guy taught a class on financial literacy at Penn. Copeland has made smart investments, saved diligently, and set a new standard for players and money.
8. Ryan Fitzpatrick
Harvard guy, remember? Fitzpatrick never chased the spotlight and made smart moves with every paycheck he got from his long, sneaky, successful career.
7. Ndamukong Suh
Suh is known for his aggressive play, but his off-field strategy is all about control. He’s built an impressive real estate portfolio and takes investing seriously.
6. Larry Fitzgerald
One of the most respected players in league history, Fitzgerald’s business acumen is just as strong as his hands. He’s been involved in tech, real estate, and philanthropy without ever making headlines for poor choices.
5. Joe Thomas
The former Browns lineman wasn’t just smart with his health—he was smart with his money. Thomas stayed grounded, invested wisely, and transitioned smoothly into broadcasting.
4. Russell Wilson
Wilson’s investments off the field are as calculated as his game-time decisions. He’s built partnerships with major companies and plays the long game regarding wealth.
3. Rob Gronkowski
Gronk might come off as the party guy, but he’s famously said he never touched his NFL salary and lived off endorsements. It turns out the big smile is a pretty sharp financial mind.
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2. Peyton Manning
He wasn’t just calling audibles on the field but also calling shots off it. Manning turned his earnings into business success, with savvy investments and endorsements that still roll in today.
Read More: 22 NFL Stars Who Got Rich Fast and Went Broke Even Faster
1. Marshawn Lynch
Beast Mode was quietly one of the league’s savviest earners. He famously never spent his NFL salary, built a brand, and ensured his money stayed as powerful as his stiff arm.
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