Troy Kenneth Aikman, born on November 21, 1966, in West Covina, California, is a name synonymous with football excellence. His journey to stardom began after his family moved to Henryetta, Oklahoma, when he was 12. Aikman’s high school years were marked by not only football prowess but also an unexpected state championship in typing. Multitalented athlete, he was approached by the New York Mets about playing baseball; instead he chose football at University of Oklahoma under Barry Switzer and later UCLA after suffering an ankle injury, where he excelled and ultimately earned induction into College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
How Did Aikman’s NFL Career Contribute to His Fame and Wealth?
Drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, Aikman became legendary during his NFL career. Leading them to three Super Bowl victories (1992, 1993 and 1995 with MVP Awards for each victory he also suffered numerous back injuries and concussions that eventually forced his retirement at just 43. Aikman retired having made over $55.5 Million during his time playing, including earning the record-setting contract from 1993 that made him highest paid NFL player at that point in time.
How Successful Has Aikman Been?
Post-retirement, Aikman seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting with Fox, earning multiple Emmy Awards and hosting a weekly radio show. His broadcasting career saw an important boost in February 2022 when he signed an eighteen million dollar deal with ESPN that brought an annual salary of over 18 million dollars and proved the value he brought as well as considerably increasing his net worth.
What Are Aikman’s Business Ventures?
Aikman’s ventures outside football are as noteworthy as his sports career. In 2005, he co-founded a NASCAR racing team, Hall of Fame Racing, with fellow ex-Cowboy Roger Staubach. The team competed in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series in 2006. Additionally, Aikman holds a minority stake in the San Diego Padres, showcasing his diverse business interests.
What Has Been Aikman’s Journey Off the Field?
Aikman’s personal life has been as eventful as his professional career. He dated country singer Lorrie Morgan in the early ’90s, married publicist Rhonda Worthey in 2000, and after their divorce in 2011, married fashion retailer Catherine Mooty in 2017. A 2023 social media post suggests that Aikman and Mooty have parted ways, and he is involved with someone new, indicating the ever-evolving nature of his personal life.
How Does Aikman’s Wealth Stack Up Today?
Troy Aikman’s net worth stands at an impressive $65 million. His earnings from his NFL career, lucrative broadcasting contracts, and business ventures contribute to this significant wealth. The $90 million deal with ESPN marks a milestone, nearly doubling his NFL earnings.
What Does Aikman’s Story Tell Us?
Troy Aikman’s life story exemplifies resilience, diversity and success both on and off of the football field. Starting his journey as an unknown athlete from small-town America all the way to football legend and successful businessman reflects Aikman’s varied skillset and ability to adapt across fields; making his legacy not just about sports history; rather its focus also lies on determination, adaptability and the pursuit of various interests.
