Ex-NFL Star Dismisses $100 Million Contract as 'Not a Lot of Money'

When most people hear about a $100 million deal, they imagine lifelong wealth. But former NFL wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. offers a different perspective, suggesting that even a massive contract like this doesnt guarantee generational riches.

Beckham Jr., who earned $101,896,476 during his 10-year NFL career, recently appeared on The Pivot podcast to share his thoughts on the realities of a $100 million contract spread over five years.

I know Im going to be fine after football, Beckham Jr. explained. Even if I didnt have a dollar in my account today, Id still be straight for life. But not everyone has that security. You sacrifice your entire life to reach this point, and when you look at a five-year, $100 million deal, what is it really? After taxes, its closer to $12 million a year. Then you have expensescars, gifts, housesand it adds up fast. Can that really last forever?

He detailed how quickly money can vanish despite large numbers. If you spend $4 million a year, thats $40 million over five years. Break it down like that, and its easy to see how it can disappear quickly, Beckham Jr. said.

Another former NFL star, Rob Gronkowski, shared a contrasting approach. Gronkowski, who earned $70 million over his career, claimed he never actually spent his contract earnings, instead relying on endorsements and business ventures.

I was frugal, Gronkowski told the Bussin With The Boys podcast. My first contract was $4 million over four years. I put $2 million in the bank, and I considered that set for life. Everything I spent was from off-field deals, not my NFL salary. I didnt know how long my career would last, so I wanted security first.

Beckham Jr. and Gronkowski clearly represent two different mindsets: one recognizing how fleeting even huge earnings can be, the other emphasizing financial discipline and off-field income to maintain long-term security.

Author: Sophia Brooks