Joe Namath is famous for different things. First, he is a retired American football player. Second, Namath was voted the NFL’s “greatest character.” Moreover, in 1985, Namath was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His time playing quarterback, especially for the New York Jets, helped spread his popularity, and in this post, we will uncover more information about him.
Meet Joe Namath – Early Life
Although famously known as Joe Namath, his birth name is Joseph William Namath. Joe was born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, on May 31, 1943. He was raised in a Catholic household alongside his five siblings.
Following his parents’ divorce, Joe lived with his mother, and it was during high school that he realized that he could play American football. Joe was a talented athlete as he comfortably engaged in basketball, baseball, and football, representing his school in different games.
Joe’s Career Development and Success
His time in high school as an athlete was noticed by different teams. At some point, he was approached by various baseball teams that offered him to join Major League Baseball. However, his mother convinced him to opt for football, allowing him to focus on his college education.
Joe then joined the University of Alabama and soon became the quarterback of the Crimson Tide from 1962 to 1964. Notably, Joe Namath led the Crimson Tide to a national championship. During the Vietnam War, Joe had cartilage damage on his knee and couldn’t be drafted to the war.
Instead, the New York Jets signed him, and during his first season, he was named the AFL Rookie of the Year.
Another notable career success was Joe’s impressive record during Super Bowl III. He led his team to victory against the Baltimore Colts thanks to his completion of eight passes for 133 yards.
In the next season, a knee injury kept him off the game, but whenever he came in, he could leave an impressive mark, such as throwing 496 yards to lead a victory. He then joined the Los Angeles Rams, but his knee injuries limited him from retiring on a high note. Joe retired during the 1977 season with a 50.1% completion rate for 3,762 yards.
Joe Namath’s Salary and Net Worth
Joe made his initial wealth from his football career. Some of his notable contracts include a three-year contract with the New York Jets worth $427,000. In 1975, he signed another contract with the same team for $900,000 for two years.
In 1969, Joe started his acting career hosting “The Joe Namath Show” before getting into other acting roles. You will find him in films like “Company” and TV series like “The Waverly Wonders.” From his acting career, Joe also managed to attract a good salary that added to his wealth.
He also owned a controversial nightclub called Bachelors III in New York City. Business was initially good for him, and he raked in good profits. Overall, Joe Namath has managed to acquire a net worth of $25 million.
