the net worth of Johnny Unitas (American Football player)
Today we will discuss the net worth of Johnny Unitas. Johnny Unitas was a professional football player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Born on May 7, 1933, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Unitas went on to become a record-setting quarterback for the Baltimore Colts, leading the team to three NFL championships and a Super Bowl victory.
the net worth of Johnny Unitas
Education and Early Career
Unitas grew up in a blue-collar family and attended St. Justin’s High School in Pittsburgh. He played football in high school and went on to play college football at the University of Louisville, where he set several school records and earned All-American honors.
Despite his impressive college career, Unitas was not selected in the NFL draft and instead signed with the Bloomfield Rams of the semi-professional Pennsylvania-Ohio-Maryland League in 1955.
Unitas played for several other semi-professional teams before being signed by the Baltimore Colts in 1956. He started his NFL career as a backup quarterback but quickly established himself as a star player. In his first season with the Colts, he led the team to a 5-2 record as a starter.
Social Activities and Marital Life
Off the field, Unitas was known for his quiet, unassuming demeanor and his commitment to his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Hoelle, in 1954, and the couple went on to have five children. Unitas was a devoted husband and father and was known for his strong family values.
Unitas was also involved in a number of charitable and community activities throughout his career. He was a supporter of the United Way and was active in various youth sports organizations. He also established the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation, which provides college scholarships to high school seniors who have demonstrated academic achievement and community service.
Scandal and Net Worth
Throughout his career, Unitas was known for his professionalism and his commitment to the game. However, he was not immune to scandal. In 1971, he was fined $2,000 by the NFL for betting on football games. Unitas denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he had only placed bets on games that did not involve the Colts.
Despite this scandal, Unitas remained one of the most beloved and respected figures in football. He retired in 1973 with a net worth of around $2 million, a significant sum for the time.
Diseases and Residence
In the years following his retirement, Unitas struggled with a number of health issues. He suffered several heart attacks and underwent several surgeries, including a double bypass in 1993. He also battled Alzheimer’s disease in his later years.
Unitas lived in various places throughout his life, including Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Florida. He died on September 11, 2002, at the age of 69, in Towson, Maryland.
Present Situation and Legacy
Despite his passing, Unitas’ legacy lives on in the world of football. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, and his record-setting career continues to inspire generations of players and fans.
Unitas was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, and his number 19 jersey was retired by the Baltimore Colts. In 2003, the Baltimore Ravens, the team that replaced the Colts in Baltimore, unveiled a statue of Unitas outside of M&T Bank Stadium. He is also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Conclusion
Johnny Unitas was a football legend who inspired countless fans and players throughout his career. His commitment to his family, his community, and the game of football made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.