Darrius Heywardbey built his fortune through a successful career in the NFL, earning millions from contracts with teams like the Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
His journey from a standout college athlete to an NFL wide receiver is full of financial milestones and achievements.
In this article, I, Andomoney, explore Darrius Heywardbey Net Worth, including the contracts and salary that contributed to his wealth.
We will take a closer look at his early career successes and major achievements, giving readers a comprehensive view of how he built his fortune.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Darrius Ramar Heyward-Bey |
| Popular Name | Darrius Heyward-Bey |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | February 26, 1987 |
| Age | 37 years old (as of 2024) |
| Parents | Mother: Vivian Heyward |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Silver Spring, Maryland |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | University of Maryland, McDonogh School |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $14 million |
| Source of Wealth | NFL Career |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) |
What is the Net Worth Of Darrius Heywardbey in 2024?
As of 2024, Darrius Heywardbey’s net worth is estimated to be $14 million.
His earnings stem primarily from his NFL career, where he secured significant contracts during his time with multiple teams.
Compared to other NFL players, his net worth is substantial but more conservative, given his prudent financial management. Below is a list of related figures in his field for comparison:
- Michael Crabtree
- Antonio Brown
- Markus Wheaton
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Indianapolis Colts
- Jerry Rice
- Carson Palmer
- Oakland Raiders
- Ryan Mundy
- Sebastian Janikowski
For more comparisons, check out our detailed list of the best-paid NFL players on our list of top-earning football athletes.
Darrius Heywardbey Salary and Finance Overview
How He Built His Wealth Through NFL Contracts and Salary
Darrius Heywardbey‘s wealth largely comes from his NFL career, where he played for teams like the Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
His journey started when he was selected 7th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders.
This gave him a notable five-year contract worth $23.5 million, including a $12 million signing bonus. His time with the Raiders marked the beginning of his financial success, but it was only part of his story.
Moving on, he signed one-year deals with the Indianapolis Colts and later the Pittsburgh Steelers, which added to his income stream.
Throughout his career, he earned an impressive $38 million in total salary. These contracts represent the foundation of his financial success, yet his story goes deeper than just salaries.
His mother, Vivian Heyward, a certified accountant, played a crucial role in helping him manage his wealth efficiently, ensuring he saved much of his earnings.
Early Career and Athletic Success: Foundation of His Earnings
Before Darrius Heywardbey made a name for himself in the NFL, he had a standout athletic career in college at Maryland Terrapins, where he played as a wide receiver.
His freshman season set the stage for future success, as he broke school records with 694 receiving yards.
These early accomplishments caught the attention of NFL scouts, positioning him for a high draft pick.
Moreover, his track and field career also demonstrated his versatility and speed, setting times that further cemented his status as a top-tier athlete.
This combination of talent in both football and track gave him a strong foundation for his future professional career, which translated into higher earnings when the NFL came calling.
Major Achievements and Awards that Increased His Market Value
Darrius Heywardbey’s financial success is intertwined with his athletic accomplishments. Throughout his career, he racked up impressive milestones.
In high school, he was named a PrepStar All-American, and during his time with the Raiders, he had several career highlights.
In a 2010 game against the Seattle Seahawks, he recorded a career-high 105 receiving yards and a 69-yard touchdown.
He also earned a spot in postseason games with the Pittsburgh Steelers, adding to his resume.
These achievements helped boost his value in the NFL, making him a valuable asset to the teams he played for and driving the contracts that contributed to his wealth.
Financial Management: How He Saved Most of His Earnings
One of the most significant factors in Darrius Heywardbey’s wealth is his financial discipline. Unlike many athletes, Heywardbey was strategic with his money.
With the help of his mother, Vivian Heyward, a CPA, he lived frugally and saved a large portion of his salary.
This financial prudence has allowed him to maintain his wealth, even after retiring from the NFL.
By sticking to a budget and making smart investment decisions, Darrius ensured that his wealth continued to grow.
His story stands out as a positive example for younger NFL players, showing that financial success is not just about how much you earn, but how much you save and manage wisely.
Post-NFL Career and Other Sources of Income
After retiring from the NFL, Darrius Heywardbey focused on maintaining and growing his wealth.
Although there is no public information about endorsements or major investments, his careful financial planning and discipline suggest that he is likely involved in other ventures.
While not much is known about his post-NFL activities, it’s clear that his earnings from football have been carefully managed.
This sets him apart from other players who struggle financially after their careers.
Darrius’s post-football financial health shows the importance of planning for the long term, both during and after a career in professional sports.
FAQs About Darrius Heywardbey
What teams did he play for in the NFL?
He played for the Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
What were his notable achievements in college?
He set school records at the University of Maryland with 694 receiving yards in his freshman year and became a top prospect for the NFL.
How did he manage his finances?
He was assisted by his mother, Vivian Heyward, who helped him live frugally and save a significant portion of his career earnings.
What position did he play in the NFL?
He played as a wide receiver throughout his professional football career.
Did he play any other sports?
Yes, Darrius Heywardbey excelled in track and field, particularly in sprinting events like the 100 meters and 200 meters.
How much did he earn during his NFL career?
He earned approximately $38 million over his NFL career.
What college did he attend?
He attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where he played for the Maryland Terrapins.
Did he win any awards in high school?
Yes, he earned first-team all-state honors and was named a PrepStar All-American.
Conclusion
Darrius Heywardbey’s journey from college standout to NFL player is an inspiring example of financial success and smart management.
If you’d like to learn more about how other athletes manage their wealth, be sure to check out andomoney.com for more articles and leave a comment or share this piece with friends! You can visit us at Andomoney.
