Desmond Howard Net Worth is a testament to his exceptional journey through football and broadcasting.
A former NFL star, Howard is celebrated for his incredible achievements, including winning the Heisman Trophy in 1991 and being named Super Bowl XXXI MVP with the Green Bay Packers.
His illustrious career, spanning 11 seasons, saw him excel as a special teams player, notably breaking punt return yardage records.
Beyond football, Howard became a renowned College Game Day analyst with ESPN, further boosting his influence and wealth.
His dedication to philanthropic efforts in education, personal growth, and family values underscores his enduring legacy. Today, his contributions continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes worldwide.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Desmond Kevin Howard |
| Date of Birth | May 15, 1970 |
| Place of Birth | Cleveland, Ohio, USA |
| Age | 55 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 192 lbs (87 kg) |
| High School | St. Joseph High School |
| College | University of Michigan |
| Degree | Bachelor’s in Communications |
| NFL Draft | 1992, 1st Round, 4th Overall Pick by the Washington Redskins |
| NFL Teams Played For | Washington Redskins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions |
| Position | Wide Receiver, Return Specialist |
| Career Highlights | Heisman Trophy Winner (1991), Super Bowl XXXI MVP, College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2011) |
| Broadcasting Career | ESPN Analyst, College GameDay Contributor |
| Net Worth | $14 Million |
| Spouse | Rebekah Funk (Married in 2003) |
| Children | Desmond Howard Jr., Dhampir Howard, Sydney Howard |
| Philanthropic Efforts | LEAD Scholars Program, Underrepresented Minority Scholarships |
| Hobbies and Interests | Meditation, Mindfulness, Community Initiatives |
Who is Desmond Howard?
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Desmond Howard is a retired professional football player and current ESPN sports analyst.
His name is etched in football history due to his spectacular achievements, such as winning the Heisman Trophy winner in 1991 and being named Super Bowl XXXI MVP.
Born on May 15, 1970, in Cleveland, Ohio, he first gained attention as an athlete at St. Joseph High School.
His journey from a promising high school athlete to a return specialist NFL player is one of hard work, dedication, and overcoming challenges.
Desmond Howard Net Worth
Desmond Howard net worth stands at an impressive $14 million, largely due to his years in the NFL and his successful broadcasting career.
Howard’s income sources include his NFL salary, endorsements, and his role as an ESPN analyst.
His NFL career highlights, such as winning the Super Bowl MVP and setting punt return yardage records, are major contributors to his financial success.
Additionally, his work as a commentator on College Game Day and his appearances on Sports Center have further boosted his net worth.
Early Life and Family Background
He grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where he developed his love for football at an early age. He attended St. Joseph High School, where he became a standout athlete.
His talent on the football field earned him All American and All Ohio honors as a tailback, setting the stage for his college career.
Howard’s early life shaped his commitment to excellence, both in sports and in life. Howard’s transition to the University of Michigan football was a pivotal moment in his career.
Initially struggling for playing time, he sought advice from counselor Greg Harden, who helped him build the mental strength to succeed on and off the field.
This experience laid the foundation for his future success, as he went on to achieve remarkable milestones, including his Heisman Trophy win.
Educational Background
Howard attended the University of Michigan, where he made his mark in college football. It was here that he won the Heisman Trophy in 1991, solidifying his status as one of the best players in the country.
His time at Michigan also gave him the opportunity to grow personally, as he focused on both athletic and academic achievements.
Howard’s educational journey reflects his commitment to personal growth and his belief in the importance of education, a value that continues to guide him in his post-football career.
NFL Career Highlights
Howard’s NFL career spanned over a decade, beginning when he was selected as the NFL Draft 1992 fourth overall pick.
He played for several teams, including the Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers, Raiders, and Lions.
Howard’s biggest career moment came when he was named the Super Bowl XXXI MVP, becoming the only special teams player to ever receive the honor.
His performance in the game helped the Green Bay Packers win the championship, further cementing his place in football history.
In addition to his Super Bowl victory, Howard set multiple punt return yardage records and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2000.
His career was marked by exceptional skills as a return specialist, and he remains one of the most celebrated players in the history of the NFL.
Desmond Howard Net Worth, Earnings & Financial Data
His NFL salary played a significant role in his overall net worth. During his time in the league, he earned substantial paychecks from his teams, including the Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers, and others. Below is a breakdown of his NFL career salary.
Here are Desmond Howard Net Worth Breakdown
| Year | Team | Salary |
| 1992 | Redskins | $1.5 million |
| 1996 | Packers | $2 million |
| 2000 | Lions | $3 million |
In addition to his NFL earnings, Howard’s post retirement ventures in broadcasting have added significantly to his net worth.
As an ESPN analyst, he has appeared on shows like College Game Day, Sports Center, and Get Up, all of which have contributed to his financial success.
Broadcasting Career
After retiring from football, he transitioned to a successful career as an ESPN sports broadcaster.
He joined ESPN in 2005 and quickly became a regular on College Game Day, where he provides insights and commentary on college football games.
Howard’s ability to break down the game for fans has made him a beloved figure in the world of sports broadcasting.
He also contributes to Sports Center and Get Up, further expanding his influence in the sports media landscape.
His broadcasting career with ESPN has allowed Howard to remain closely tied to the sport of football while building a new income stream.
His role as a College Game Day analyst has also bolstered his net worth, making him a key figure in the world of sports media.
Personal Life Updates
He married Rebekah Funk on May 31, 2003, and the couple has three children: Desmond Howard Jr., Dhampir Howard, and Sydney Howard.
Despite his high profile career, Howard has always made time for his family. He prioritizes family life and maintains a balanced lifestyle that includes a strong commitment to education and community initiatives.
Howard is also a passionate advocate for mental health in sports and practices meditation and mindfulness.
These practices help him manage the stresses of his high-profile career and maintain a healthy mindset.
In addition, Howard actively supports the LEAD Scholars program, which provides underrepresented minority scholarships to students at the University of Michigan, further reflecting his commitment to education and philanthropic efforts.
Awards and Honors
Achievements have earned him numerous awards and honors, cementing his legacy in football.
In 2011, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, an honor that recognizes his outstanding contributions to the game.
His Michigan jersey retirement is a testament to his impact on University of Michigan football, where his records and performances continue to inspire future generations.
In addition to his Super Bowl MVP and Heisman Trophy, Howard has been named to the Michigan Hall of Honor, further solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in football history.
Legacy in Football
His legacy in football is defined by his unique contributions to the game, especially as a special teams player.
Ability to excel as a return specialist and his record-setting career in the NFL have left a lasting impact on how the game is played today.
Howard’s influence extends beyond the field through his work as a broadcaster, where he continues to shape the way fans understand the game.
Howard’s legacy in college football is also significant, as his Heisman Trophy win and contributions to the University of Michigan football program inspire young athletes to strive for greatness.
He has proven that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve success in both sports and life.
Career Milestones
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Howard’s football career is marked by several notable achievements, many of which continue to influence the game.
After being selected as the NFL Draft 1992 fourth overall pick, he quickly made his mark as a dynamic special teams player.
His standout NFL career highlights include his iconic Super Bowl XXXI MVP award, which recognized his unparalleled performance and leadership in the Green Bay Packers victory.
In 2000, he was honored with a Pro Bowl selection, solidifying his reputation as one of the NFL’s elite athletes.
Howard’s influence extended to teams like the Washington Redskins, Raiders, and Lions, where his special teams performances continued to impress.
On the college football scene, Howard is remembered for his Heisman Trophy win in 1991, which put him on the map as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Philanthropic Efforts
Outside of football, He has made significant contributions through philanthropy. His commitment to giving back is seen through his involvement in various initiatives, particularly in the realm of education.
Howard is a strong advocate for programs like the LEAD Scholars program, which supports underrepresented minority scholarships at the University of Michigan.
This effort highlights his dedication to promoting access to education and empowering underprivileged students.
Howard also believes in mental health in sports, emphasizing the importance of meditation and mindfulness.
His advocacy for mental well-being is an important part of his philanthropic efforts, as he seeks to create a positive impact both on and off the field.
Impact on Modern Football
His impact on modern football can be seen through his pioneering role as a special teams player.
In an era where special teams were often overlooked, Howard showed the world the immense value of punt returns and kickoff returns.
His ability to change the course of games through special teams play has set a standard for future players.
Howard’s success on the field has influenced how coaches and analysts approach special teams strategy, proving that a player’s impact goes beyond traditional positions.
His legacy in this regard has helped elevate the importance of special teams in today’s game.
Additional Insights into his Career
Howard’s career was not just about the accolades but also about overcoming challenges. While his college career was full of highlights, his early NFL years were marked by a battle to find his place in the league.
Howard’s perseverance paid off when he reached his peak with the Green Bay Packers, ultimately becoming a Super Bowl hero. His journey demonstrates the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
As a return specialist NFL player, Howard’s athleticism was second to none. His punt return records are a testament to his skills and the precision with which he executed every play. These achievements make him one of the most memorable players in NFL history.
Influence on College Football
His influence on college football is undeniable. His Heisman Trophy win in 1991 cemented his place as one of the most iconic players in the sport.
Howard’s time at the University of Michigan was transformative, not only for his own career but also for the university’s football program.
His contributions to Michigan’s success laid the foundation for future athletes to follow in his footsteps.
Howard’s success inspired countless young athletes to pursue careers in football, especially in the realm of special teams.
He became a symbol of excellence, demonstrating that with the right mindset and work ethic, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.
Personal Growth and Development
Off the field, he has always been a student of personal growth. Throughout his career, he developed a keen understanding of how to manage pressure, maintain focus, and develop strong relationships with teammates.
His commitment to personal growth continues today as he balances his work as a broadcaster with his philanthropic efforts. Howard’s belief in education and family values has guided his life choices.
These values, instilled early in his career, have shaped his post-football endeavors. As he continues to grow in his role with ESPN, he remains committed to creating positive change in both his professional and personal life.
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Role in Shaping Football Culture
He has played a significant role in shaping football culture, especially when it comes to special teams.
His explosive returns and ability to create game changing moments on the field have reshaped how fans and analysts view the importance of special teams in the game.
His success led to a greater appreciation of the return specialist role, demonstrating that every player has the potential to impact the outcome of a game.
Howard’s influence also extends to his role in the media. As an ESPN analyst, he uses his platform to educate fans, providing expert insights into the game.
College Game Day appearances have helped shape how fans engage with football, creating a deeper connection between the sport and its audience.
Enduring Legacy
Enduring legacy in football cannot be overstated. From his iconic Heisman Trophy win to his Super Bowl MVP award, Howard’s achievements have left an indelible mark on the game.
His continued influence as a commentator and his dedication to improving the game ensure that his legacy will be felt for years to come.
Howard’s Michigan Hall of Honor induction and College Football Hall of Fame recognition are just a few examples of how his legacy is preserved in football history.
These honors serve as a testament to his exceptional career and his lasting impact on the sport.
Impact on Future Generations
Howard’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of football players. His achievements have shown young athletes that dedication, hard work, and perseverance can lead to success.
By breaking barriers as a return specialist, Howard has paved the way for future players to excel in roles that were once underappreciated.
Moreover, Howard’s commitment to education, mental health, and philanthropy provides a model for future athletes on how to balance success on the field with positive contributions off the field.
His work with underrepresented minority scholarships and his advocacy for mental well-being in sports are helping shape a better future for young athletes.
Continued Relevance
Even after retiring from professional football, he remains a key figure in the world of sports.
His work as an ESPN analyst keeps him connected to the game, where he continues to share his expertise with fans.
Howard’s consistent presence on Sports Center and Get Up allows him to remain at the forefront of the sports media landscape.
His continued relevance shows that his impact extends far beyond his playing days. As a broadcaster, Howard’s valuable insights into the game continue to shape and redefine how football is both discussed and analyzed.
Lasting Impact on Football
Howard’s influence on football, particularly in the realm of special teams, is unparalleled.
His ability to change the course of a game through his return abilities has set a standard that future players strive to meet.
Whether it was in the NFL or college football, Howard demonstrated the importance of the special teams role and showed how impactful a well-executed return can be.
As one of the most celebrated players in football history, Howard’s impact on the game will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
His dedication to the sport and his contributions to its growth ensure his place as one of the all time greats.
Fun Facts
- He is the only Super Bowl MVP who played as a special teams player.
- He is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and the Michigan Hall of Honor.
- Howard holds several punt return yardage records, including the longest punt return in Super Bowl history.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Followers | Live Link |
| 392.8K+ | Click Here | |
| 125K+ | Click Here | |
| 61K+ | Click Here | |
| Youtube | Click Here | |
| 1.7K+ | Click Here |
Conclusion
Desmond Howard net worth is the result of a thriving career, highlighted by his Super Bowl MVP win, Heisman Trophy victory, and NFL achievements.
His post retirement career as a College Game Day analyst and his philanthropic efforts have also contributed significantly to his financial success and influence.
Howard’s impact on college football, NFL special teams, and sports broadcasting ensures that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Through his commitment to family, education, and community initiatives, Howard’s story serves as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike, demonstrating the power of perseverance, passion, and giving back to others.
FAQ’s
What is Desmond Howard net worth?
Desmond Howard net worth, estimated at $14 million, stems from his remarkable NFL career, followed by success in broadcasting and endorsements.
Which team did Desmond Howard win a Super Bowl with?
He won Super Bowl XXXI with the Green Bay Packers, earning the MVP title.
Did Desmond Howard win the Heisman Trophy?
Yes, he won the Heisman Trophy in 1991 while playing for the University of Michigan.
What is Desmond Howard’s role at ESPN?
He is a prominent analyst on College Game Day and makes appearances on other shows like Sports Center.
Is Desmond Howard in the Hall of Fame?
Yes, he is in both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Michigan Hall of Honor.
