NFL Legend Dick Butkus Tackled Opponents and Sprinted Into Showbiz; Here's His Net Worth
| Name | Dick Butkus |
| Net Worth | $8 Million |
| Salary | $50,000 |
| Annual Income | $100,000 |
| Source of Income | Football, acting, commentary |
| DOB | December 9, 1942 |
| DOB | October 5, 2023 |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Football player, Actor |
| Nationality | United States of America |
Dick Butkus' net worth
Popular as one of the greatest linebackers in the history of NFL and a pro-football hall of famer notorious for his bone-crushing tackles, legendary athlete Dick Butkus had earned a $10 million net worth at the time of his death on October 5, 2023. Apart from being named on NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, Butkus also went on to act in TV shows and movies after his retirement in the 70s. Although his career was cut short by injuries, Butkus built a reputation as a relentless defensive player and also started The Butkus Foundation.
What were Dick Butkus' sources of income?
Butkus made a substantial portion of his wealth through the NFL while playing as a middle linebacker for the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973. Apart from this, he generated revenues from endorsements and acting gigs in films such as "The Longest Yard" and "Any Given Sunday."
Endorsement deals
In 1970, Butkus appeared in a Super Bowl ad for Prestone, which is remembered as one of the earliest highly successful celebrity endorsements during the big game. This endorsement not only added to his income but also paved the way for future athletes to capitalize on their fame through endorsements.
Dick Butkus' assets
Dick Butkus' real estate holdings, valued at over $14 million, included a sprawling estate in Lake Forest, Illinois, as well as luxury homes in Hinsdale and Antioch. Butkus also owned commercial properties, including the Butkus Center, a multi-use sports complex in Lake Forest, and office buildings as well as retail centers in the Chicago area.
Dick Butkus' change in earnings by year
| 1990 | $12 Million |
| 2010 | $15 Million |
| 2023 | $8 Million |
Dick Butkus' personal life
Butkus married his high school sweetheart, Helen Essenberg, in 1963. The couple had three children: Ricky, Matt, and Nikki. Matt followed in his father's footsteps, playing college football for the USC Trojans and joining him in philanthropic endeavors. Dick Butkus's nephew, Luke Butkus, has also been involved in the NFL as a coach.
Butkus faced physical challenges later in life due to injuries sustained during his playing career. Despite these difficulties, he maintained a positive outlook and even co-authored a book about heart disease after undergoing quintuple bypass surgery.
Dick Butkus' early life
Dick Butkus was born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 9, 1942, as the youngest of eight children to Lithuanian immigrant parents. He grew up in the Roseland neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Butkus attended Chicago Vocational High School, where he excelled in football, showcasing his athletic talents and earning recognition as Chicago's high school player of the year by the Chicago Sun-Times in 1959.
High School and collegiate career
Butkus continued his football journey at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he played center and linebacker for the Fighting Illini from 1962 to 1964. He led the team to notable successes, including an 8-1-1 record and a Rose Bowl victory in the 1963-64 season. Butkus received several MVP and Player of the Year awards during his collegiate career.
Chicago Bears, 1965-1973 (NFL Career)
Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1965, Butkus made an immediate impact as a middle linebacker, earning Pro Bowl invitations in each of his eight NFL seasons. He was known for his tough tackling and defensive prowess, earning recognition as the NFL Defensive Player of the Year multiple times. Butkus played a pivotal role in several memorable games for the Bears, cementing his status as one of the league's top players.
Philanthropy
Beyond football, Butkus was committed to philanthropy. He established the Butkus Foundation, which supports charitable causes and initiatives. Notably, the foundation administers the Butkus Award, a prestigious honor for linebackers, and undertakes efforts to promote cardiovascular health and combat steroid use among high school athletes.
Legacy
Dick Butkus' legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. His impact on the game of football, both as a player and through his philanthropic endeavors, continues to inspire athletes and fans alike. Additionally, his contributions to film, television, and sports commentary further solidify his enduring legacy in popular culture.
FAQs
When did Dick Butkus pass away?
Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2023, at the age of 80.
Which are Dick Butkus' most valuable real estate assets?
Butkus's most valuable real estate assets included his Lake Forest estate, valued at $3 million, and a mansion in Hinsdale worth $5 million.
What was Dick Butkus' primary source of income?
Dick Butkus's primary source of income was his NFL career, where he excelled as a middle linebacker for the Chicago Bears.
What happened to Hall of Fame linebacker and Bears legend Dick Butkus?
Dick Butkus, the Hall of Fame linebacker and Bears legend, passed away on October 5, 2023, at the age of 80.
What was Dick Butkus' net worth in 2024?
Dick Butkus had a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death in October 2023.