Did you know that Chris Howard net worth remained steady despite a short-lived NFL career? His time on the field may have been brief, but his journey—both professional and personal—left a mark.
From leading the Michigan Wolverines to winning a national title, to marrying a Hollywood star, his story blends athletic success with financial complexity.
In this article, PBC dives into how he earned, managed, and faced challenges with his money over the years.
Chris Howard Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Christopher L. Howard |
| Popular Name | Chris Howard |
| Birth Date | May 5, 1975 |
| Age | 49 (as of March 24, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Kenner, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | John Curtis Christian High School, University of Michigan |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Gabrielle Union (m. 2001–2006) |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | N/A |
| Height (meters) | 1.78 meters |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
| Source of Wealth | NFL salary, sports career |
What is the Net Worth Of Chris Howard in 2025?
As of 2025, Chris Howard net worth is estimated to be $3 million. While this might not compare to NFL legends or big-contract stars, it’s still a respectable figure for someone whose professional football career lasted just a few seasons.
Unlike his peers who signed multimillion-dollar contracts or landed major endorsement deals, Howard faced challenges early—especially with fumble issues that cut his NFL time short.
He earned his wealth mainly from his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and from being part of a championship-winning team at the University of Michigan.
He might not be as widely known as others on the list of wealthy public figures in entertainment and sports, but his name still holds value.
Related People/Entities
- Gabrielle Union
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Denver Broncos
- Michigan Wolverines
- Anthony Thomas
- Lloyd Carr
- Charles Woodson
- Joe Jurevicius
- Brian Griese
- Tom Coughlin
Chris Howard Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How did he earn his wealth during his NFL career?
Chris Howard earned his money as a professional running back in the NFL, though his stint was brief.
He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 5th round of the 1998 NFL Draft, but he never played a regular-season game for them. After struggling with five fumbles in two preseason games, he was released.
Soon after, he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he gained 123 yards rushing and 37 yards receiving during his time. However, two fumbles in just 21 carries in 2000 marked the end of his NFL journey.
This short tenure limited his earning potential compared to other players in his draft class.
Despite this, his college legacy at Michigan, combined with his draft signing bonus and league minimum salaries, helped him accumulate the foundation of his net worth.
What were his primary sources of income after leaving football?
Post-retirement, there is little public information regarding his business ventures or career shifts. It’s unclear whether he pursued media, coaching, or other opportunities that many former NFL players transition into.
However, the absence of financial scandals or major downturns suggests he managed his money carefully. Without lucrative endorsement deals or long-term contracts, it’s likely that his earnings were mainly from his brief but impactful sports career.
How did his time at Michigan influence his financial future?
Howard’s standout performance with the Michigan Wolverines, especially during the 1997 National Championship season, significantly boosted his draft potential.
He rushed for 938 yards and added 276 receiving yards, playing a vital role in an undefeated team.
He was also named Hula Bowl MVP in 1998, which enhanced his visibility among scouts and teams. These achievements not only secured him a spot in the draft but also helped him sign contracts in the NFL.
Though college players don’t earn salaries, this period of excellence built his reputation and opened doors to professional opportunities.
How did his personal life affect his finances?
In 2001, Chris Howard married actress Gabrielle Union, which brought him into the public eye beyond sports.
Their marriage ended in 2006, and Gabrielle later mentioned she regretted not having a prenuptial agreement, suggesting potential financial implications.
Although no official settlement figures were disclosed, this separation may have affected his overall finances. This personal chapter also shifted public attention toward his life off the field.
What challenges did he face in maintaining financial stability?
His short NFL career, largely due to recurring fumble issues, left little room for long-term financial growth from football. Without endorsement deals or extended contracts, his income window was narrow.
Also, public records show no transition into high-earning professions afterward. Despite these setbacks, he avoided the financial pitfalls many former athletes encounter, maintaining a modest but stable net worth over the years.
How does his financial standing compare with similar players?
Compared to other NFL players with similar career lengths, Chris Howard’s estimated $3 million net worth is modest but respectable.
Some players in his position walked away with less due to poor financial management or lack of post-career planning.
He may not be on par with top-tier players like his former college teammate Charles Woodson, but he outpaced others who never made it past training camp.
His journey offers insight into the financial outcomes of athletes who had brief yet impactful careers.
Conclusion
Chris Howard’s story is a compelling mix of athletic triumphs and financial resilience. Like, share, or drop a comment if you enjoyed the read—there’s always more to explore at Pennbookcenter.com.
