Johnny Manziel, a former American football quarterback, gained national attention after winning the Heisman Trophy as a freshman at Texas A&M. Despite his promising career, personal struggles and off-field issues led to a swift decline. As of 2024, Johnny Manziel’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million, a stark contrast to his once-projected earnings of over $100 million. At 31 years old, Manziel’s story remains a cautionary tale of unfulfilled potential and personal challenges.
How Did Johnny Manziel’s Career Begin?
Born on December 6, 1992, in Tyler, Texas, Johnny Manziel excelled in multiple sports during his youth, including football, baseball, basketball, and golf. He chose to focus on football and quickly became a standout player at Tivy High School in Kerrville, Texas. His exceptional performance earned him several accolades and scholarship offers from multiple universities. Ultimately, he committed to Texas A&M, where he made history by becoming the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012.
What Led to His Downfall in the NFL?
After an outstanding college career, Manziel declared for the 2014 NFL Draft. Initially projected as a top pick, concerns over his attitude and personal behavior caused his draft stock to fall. He was selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, his professional career was plagued by inconsistent performances, off-field partying, and substance abuse issues. During his two-year tenure with the Browns, he recorded only seven touchdowns and seven interceptions before being released in 2016.
How Much Did Johnny Manziel Earn in His Career?
Despite high expectations, Manziel’s total career earnings were significantly lower than projected. His four-year contract with the Browns was worth $8.25 million, including a $4.3 million signing bonus. However, he was released after two seasons, earning only $7.7 million in salary. Additionally, he secured around $10 million in endorsement deals, primarily from Nike, Nissan, McDonald’s, and Panini America. However, his endorsement deals were terminated due to his off-field controversies, bringing his total career earnings to approximately $18 million before taxes.
Did Johnny Manziel Have Family Wealth?
There was a common misconception that Johnny Manziel came from a wealthy oil family. In reality, while his great-grandfather Bobby Joe Manziel did strike oil in the 1930s, the fortune did not directly translate to Johnny’s immediate family. His parents, Paul and Michelle Manziel, worked as bartenders before moving into real estate and car sales. The rumors about his family’s vast wealth were largely exaggerated, as Manziel himself admitted in a 2023 Netflix documentary.
What Were His Biggest Endorsement Deals?
Manziel was once a highly marketable athlete, signing a multi-million-dollar endorsement deal with Nike before the 2014 NFL Draft. Under Armour and New Balance also made offers, but Nike won the bidding war. However, due to his troubled career, Nike dropped him in 2016. Other endorsement deals included partnerships with Nissan, McDonald’s, and Panini America. Despite earning millions, his inability to maintain a professional image led to the loss of these lucrative deals.
What Happened to Johnny Manziel After the NFL?
After being released by the Browns, Manziel attempted to revive his football career by playing in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2018 but was traded to the Montreal Alouettes after six weeks. However, he was banned from the CFL for undisclosed reasons. He then briefly played in the Alliance of American Football (AAF) for the Memphis Express in 2019 before the league folded. He later joined the Fan-Controlled Football (FCF) indoor league.
How Did His Personal Life Impact His Career?
Manziel’s career was overshadowed by numerous personal issues, including substance abuse and legal troubles. He was arrested in 2012 before his first college football game for possessing a fake ID. Later incidents included an NCAA investigation for allegedly accepting payments for autographs, domestic violence accusations from his ex-girlfriend Colleen Crowley, and repeated substance abuse violations. His behavior led to his release from the Browns, the loss of endorsement deals, and the end of his NFL career.
What Is Johnny Manziel Doing Now?
Manziel has remained in the public eye through various media appearances and his involvement in Fan-Controlled Football. In 2023, he appeared in the Netflix documentary Untold: Johnny Football, where he admitted to spending $5 million during a reckless “bender.” While he has expressed interest in entrepreneurship and business ventures, he has not made a significant financial comeback. He currently resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, and occasionally makes public appearances discussing his past.
What Lessons Can Be Learned from His Story?
Johnny Manziel’s story is a classic case of wasted potential due to personal struggles and a lack of discipline. His rise and fall serve as a lesson on the importance of professionalism, responsible financial management, and the impact of personal decisions on career longevity. While he once had the talent and opportunity to become an NFL legend, his choices ultimately led to a premature exit from the sport.
Conclusion
At 31 years old, Johnny Manziel’s net worth stands at just $1 million, a fraction of what he could have earned with a successful NFL career. His story highlights the importance of discipline, preparation, and personal responsibility in professional sports. Although his football career may be over, his experiences serve as a cautionary tale for future athletes looking to navigate the pressures of fame and fortune wisely.
