Vinny Testaverde at a Glance
- Categories: Athletes, Athletes > NFL Players
- Net Worth: $8 Million
- Birthdate: Nov 13, 1963 (60 years old)
- Birthplace: Brooklyn
- Gender: Male
- Profession: American football player
- Nationality: United States of America
- Height: 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Vinny Testaverde’s Net Worth: A Look at the NFL Veteran’s Career and Wealth
Introduction
Vincent “Vinny” Testaverde Sr. is a name that resonates with football fans. Known for his longevity and arm strength, Testaverde enjoyed a remarkable 21-season career in the National Football League. But what is the story behind this quarterback’s success and what is Vinny Testaverde’s net worth? This article delves into his early life, college career, NFL journey, and the financial aspects of his professional life.
Early Life and College Career
Born on November 13, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York City, Vinny Testaverde’s journey to football stardom began in his youth. He attended Sewanhaka High School, graduating in 1981, and then spent a postgraduate year at Fork Union Military Academy. Growing up a passionate New York Jets fan, he likely dreamed of one day playing under the bright lights of the NFL.
His college career at the University of Miami solidified his status as a top prospect. From 1982 to 1986, he led the Miami Hurricanes, culminating in a stellar senior season in 1986. He was a consensus first-team All-American, won the Heisman Trophy, and set the Hurricanes’ all-time record for career touchdown passes with 48. His achievements also earned him the Davey O’Brien Award, the Maxwell Award, the Sammy Baugh Trophy, and the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award. His legacy at Miami was further cemented with inductions into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
NFL Career Highlights
Testaverde’s NFL career spanned an impressive 21 seasons, a testament to his resilience and skill. He played for several teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, and Carolina Panthers. He was selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1996 and 1998. While his exact career earnings are difficult to pinpoint due to fluctuations and incomplete records, it’s estimated he earned around $14 million in salary throughout his NFL career. Adjusting for inflation, this figure could be approximately $26 million. His net worth today is estimated to be $8 million, reflecting a mix of his earnings, investments, and other financial ventures.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Start
Testaverde’s NFL journey began when he was selected as the first overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1987 NFL Draft. He made his debut in Week 2 and earned his first start in Week 13. However, his time in Tampa wasn’t without challenges. He faced taunts from fans and radio personalities due to his color blindness, and his performance on the field often led to criticism. Despite the tough start, this experience helped shape his resolve.
Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens
In 1993, Testaverde signed with the Cleveland Browns as a free agent. He initially served as a backup but eventually took over as the starter after Bernie Kosar was released. He played for the Browns for three seasons before the team relocated. He then moved to Baltimore to play for the newly formed Baltimore Ravens. During his two seasons with the Ravens, he earned his first Pro Bowl appearance in 1996. Although he renewed his contract, an injury in 1997 led to his release before the 1998 season.

Doug Pensinger/ALLSPORT
New York Jets: A Homecoming
In 1998, Testaverde returned to his hometown to join the New York Jets. He thrived in his first season, producing a memorable play against the Seattle Seahawks. This play led to the NFL implementing a new instant replay review system the following season. In the 2000 regular season finale against the Ravens, he showcased his capabilities by throwing for a career-high 481 yards.
Dallas Cowboys: A Brief Stint
In 2004, Testaverde joined the Dallas Cowboys, signing a one-year contract. He led the team to a third-place finish in the NFC East. His performance included 3,532 passing yards and 297 completions, ranking among the best of his career and in Cowboys franchise history.
Second Stint with the Jets
The New York Jets re-signed Testaverde on September 27, 2005. He set an NFL record on December 26 for the most consecutive seasons with at least one touchdown pass. That same pass was the final touchdown thrown during ABC’s Monday Night Football broadcasts. This game also marked the first time in NFL history that two quarterbacks over the age of 40 completed a pass (Testaverde was 42, and Doug Flutie was 43).
Later Career: Patriots and Panthers
In 2006, Testaverde signed with the New England Patriots as Tom Brady’s backup. He continued to set records, with a touchdown pass to Troy Brown in December marking his twentieth straight season with at least one touchdown pass. In 2007, he signed a one-year contract but was released the following month. Later, the Carolina Panthers signed him in October 2007 to address injuries. He extended his record to 21 consecutive seasons with a touchdown pass. He also became the oldest starting quarterback to win a game in NFL history. He officially retired from professional football in January 2008, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance.
Personal Life and Legacy
Vinny Testaverde is married with three children. After his retirement, he became the quarterbacks coach at Jesuit High School of Tampa, where his son, Vincent Jr., played. Vincent Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps, playing college football as a quarterback for the SUNY Albany Great Danes and later joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Vipers in the XFL. Testaverde’s career is a testament to his dedication and his ability to adapt and succeed in the ever-changing world of professional football. His net worth reflects not only his earnings but also his enduring impact on the sport.
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Conclusion
Vinny Testaverde’s journey through the NFL is a story of perseverance, skill, and adaptability. From his college success to his impressive 21-season professional career, he left an indelible mark on the sport. His net worth, estimated at $8 million, reflects not only his earnings but also the lasting impact he had on football. He remains a symbol of longevity and dedication for aspiring athletes.
Career Earnings
Source / Title | Amount |
---|---|
Carolina Panthers (2007) | $847.1 Thousand |
New England Patriots (2006) | $333.5 Thousand |
New York Jets (2005) | $765 Thousand |
Dallas Cowboys (2004) | $1.1 Million |
New York Jets (2003) | $1 Million |
New York Jets (2002) | $4 Million |
New York Jets (2001) | $5.6 Million |
New York Jets (2000) | $7 Million |
New York Jets (1999) | $6.6 Million |
New York Jets (1998) | $1.5 Million |
Baltimore Ravens (1997) | $5.5 Million |
Baltimore Ravens (1996) | $640 Thousand |
Houston Texans (1995) | $4.1 Million |
Houston Texans (1994) | $2.5 Million |
Houston Texans (1993) | $1.4 Million |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1992) | $1.6 Million |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1991) | $1.4 Million |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1990) | $1.4 Million |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1989) | $1.2 Million |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1988) | $966.7 Thousand |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1987) | $1.8 Million |
Total Earnings | $51.1 Million |