People often wonder about AJ McCarron net worth — and it’s no surprise. With a career full of championship wins and NFL contracts, his bank account reflects his football success. The former Alabama star has built impressive wealth through professional football, endorsements, and smart business moves. From college glory to the pros, McCarron has turned his quarterback skills into serious money.
Football fans remember McCarron as the guy who led Alabama to back-to-back national championships. But his journey from college hero to wealthy athlete is fascinating. His story shows how talent, hard work, and good decisions can create lasting wealth. Let’s dive into how this quarterback built his fortune and what he’s worth today.
How Much Is AJ McCarron Worth?
AJ McCarron’s estimated net worth sits around $5 million in 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This impressive fortune comes mainly from his eight seasons in the NFL, where he earned over $14 million in salary alone. His wealth puts him in good company among backup quarterbacks, though it’s modest compared to superstar starters.
When you compare McCarron to other NFL quarterbacks, his net worth is solid for a backup player. Starting quarterbacks often have net worths in the tens of millions, while backup players typically earn less. McCarron’s $5 million reflects his role as a reliable backup who’s had steady work throughout his career.
The estimate comes from tracking his NFL contracts, endorsement deals, and other income sources. Celebrity Net Worth is known for researching public records and financial information to create these estimates. While the exact number might vary, $5 million represents a reasonable calculation based on his career earnings and lifestyle.
His current XFL salary of $60,000 per year is much lower than his NFL days. However, this pay cut was intentional — McCarron chose the XFL to stay closer to his family in Alabama. Sometimes life decisions matter more than maximum earnings, and McCarron’s choice shows his priorities.
Career Highlights
McCarron first made headlines at the University of Alabama, where he became a college football legend. He achieved something special that most quarterbacks only dream about — winning consecutive BCS National Championship Games in 2012 and 2013. These victories made him a household name and set the stage for his professional career.
His college success earned him prestigious awards that proved his talent. McCarron won the Maxwell Award, Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, and Kellen Moore Award. These honors recognized him as one of the best college quarterbacks in the country. His performance at Alabama opened doors to the NFL and created his initial fame.
The NFL draft brought McCarron to the Cincinnati Bengals, where he spent several seasons as a backup quarterback. While he didn’t become a starter immediately, he gained valuable experience and proved he could perform when called upon. His NFL career included stops with multiple teams, showing his value as a reliable backup.
McCarron’s most memorable NFL moments came during his time with Cincinnati. He stepped in when starting quarterbacks got injured and showed he could handle the pressure. His steady play and professional attitude earned respect from coaches and teammates throughout his career.
Main Sources of Income
Professional football contracts form the biggest part of McCarron’s wealth. During his NFL career, he earned different salaries based on his contracts and teams. In 2020, he made $1.05 million with the Houston Texans, while his 2019 Oakland Raiders contract paid him $1.8 million. These salaries add up quickly over multiple seasons.
His career earnings show the financial rewards of NFL football. Between 2014 and 2021, McCarron earned over $15 million in total salary and bonuses. This includes signing bonuses, base salaries, and performance incentives. Even backup quarterbacks can build substantial wealth through consistent NFL employment.
Endorsement deals provide additional income beyond his playing contracts. McCarron has partnerships with Jack’s fast food chain, appearing in commercials for their Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich. He also has deals with Southern Fried Chicken, though the exact earnings from these endorsements aren’t publicly known.
His current XFL contract with the St. Louis BattleHawks pays much less than his NFL days. At $60,000 per year, it’s a significant pay cut from his previous salaries. However, this choice allows him to continue playing while staying close to his Alabama home and family.
Luxury Lifestyle
McCarron lives comfortably in Mobile, Alabama, where he maintains his primary residence. While specific details about his house aren’t widely available, he previously owned property in the area. Many professional athletes own multiple homes, and McCarron likely has real estate investments beyond his main residence.
His car collection includes at least one impressive vehicle that he’s shared publicly. McCarron posted photos on Instagram showing off his Ford F-150 Raptor. This high-end truck reflects his taste for quality vehicles and his Alabama roots. The Raptor is known for its performance and luxury features.
Like many professional athletes, McCarron probably owns other luxury items that aren’t publicly displayed. Professional football players often invest in watches, jewelry, and other high-end goods. However, McCarron seems to keep his lifestyle relatively private compared to some other NFL players.
His spending appears focused on family and experiences rather than flashy displays of wealth. This approach suggests smart financial management and priorities beyond just accumulating expensive items. Many successful athletes learn that lasting happiness comes from relationships and experiences, not just material possessions.
Investments and Side Businesses
McCarron has ventured into real estate development through McCarron Development, which shows his business interests beyond football. The company has invested in various projects, including the Topgolf facility that opened in Mobile. This involvement demonstrates his commitment to his hometown’s economic development.
The development company also leased penthouse office space in Mobile’s Waterman-Smith Building. This type of commercial real estate investment can provide steady income and long-term wealth building. Real estate often serves as a smart investment strategy for professional athletes looking to diversify their income.
While specific details about other investments aren’t publicly available, McCarron likely works with financial advisors to manage his wealth. Many professional athletes invest in stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments to grow their money. Smart investment strategies help athletes maintain wealth after their playing careers end.
His business interests seem focused on Alabama, which makes sense given his strong ties to the state. Local investments allow him to stay involved in his community while building wealth. This approach combines financial growth with personal satisfaction and community impact.
Charity and Giving Back
McCarron and his wife Katherine Webb-McCarron founded the Team McCarron Foundation in 2015. This charitable organization supports children’s hospitals, education, and families in need. The foundation shows their commitment to using their platform and resources to help others in their community and beyond.
His involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation demonstrates his care for children facing serious challenges. McCarron has hosted Make-A-Wish kids at NFL games and participated in fundraising campaigns. These activities show how he uses his celebrity status to bring joy to children and families during difficult times.
McCarron has also supported the Special Olympics, participating in events and fundraisers for athletes with intellectual disabilities. His involvement with Habitat for Humanity includes volunteering to build and repair homes for families in need. These hands-on activities show genuine commitment to helping others.
When devastating tornadoes hit Alabama in 2011, McCarron and his Alabama teammates volunteered for relief efforts. They distributed supplies and worked at food banks to help their community recover. This response shows his deep connection to Alabama and willingness to help during emergencies.
Final Thoughts
AJ McCarron net worth of $5 million reflects a successful football career and smart financial decisions. While he may not have the wealth of superstar quarterbacks, his fortune is impressive for a backup player who prioritized family over maximum earnings. His story shows that success in professional sports can create lasting wealth even without being a household name.
His transition from NFL star to XFL player demonstrates that sometimes life choices matter more than money. McCarron chose to take a significant pay cut to stay close to his family in Alabama. This decision shows maturity and priorities that many people can respect and admire.
Looking ahead, McCarron’s business investments and charitable work suggest he’s building a legacy beyond football. His development company and foundation work show planning for life after sports. These activities could provide income and satisfaction long after his playing days end.
McCarron’s journey from Alabama quarterback to wealthy athlete offers lessons about building wealth through talent, hard work, and smart choices. His net worth represents not just money in the bank, but a life well-lived with family, community, and purpose at the center.
