Even though they raked in millions of dollars during their dazzling careers, most of these superstar athletes saw their fortunes dwindle shortly after exiting the League. In fact, Sports Illustrated once crunched the numbers and found that a staggering 80% of retired NFL players find themselves financially strapped within just two years of hanging up their jerseys. Lavish splurges, ill-fated investments, family obligations, divorces, and misguided financial counsel all contributed to these iconic figures watching their millions slip through their fingers. Join us as we take a closer look at the stories of the NFL’s most influential players who found themselves in the financial deep end.
#1: Chris McAlister
Chris McAlister, a cornerback who graced the NFL stage from 1999 to 2009, once held the promise of a stellar career. His talent shone brightly in 2003 when he earned his maiden Pro Bowl selection, a feat he repeated in 2004 and 2006. In 2004, he inked a monumental six-year, $55 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, securing his spot as one of the league’s top defensive talents for years to come. This contract would see him through until 2009, marking a significant chapter in his football journey.
However, McAlister’s NFL narrative took an unexpected twist when he found himself donning the New Orleans Saints jersey. By 2011, McAlister’s financial woes took center stage as TMZ reported his quest to lower his staggering $11,000 monthly child support payments, revealing that he had moved back in with his parents and was dependent on them for his basic living expenses.