Johnny Manziel Net Worth in 2025: A Journey Through Career Peaks and Pitfalls

Johnny Manziel's story has been one of highs and lows, both on and off the field. From being one of the most talked-about college football stars to struggling as a professional athlete, Manziel’s career trajectory has been as polarizing as the man himself. But what’s Johnny Manziel net worth in 2025? Unlike many former athletes who thrive financially post-retirement, Johnny has faced numerous challenges, leaving his current estimated net worth at around $1 million.

This blog dives deep into Manziel's career, personal endeavours, and financial decisions that have led to Johnny Manziel net worth.

Early Life and Rise to Stardom

Born on December 6, 1992, in Tyler, Texas, Johnny Manziel was destined to be an athlete. During his high school years at Tivy High School, Manziel showcased his athletic prowess in football and baseball, excelling in each. By the end of his high school career, he'd earned accolades like Parade All-American and Mr. Texas Football, solidifying his status as a star in the making.

Although colleges like Oregon, Baylor, and Stanford came knocking, Manziel ultimately chose Texas A&M, a decision that would kickstart his meteoric rise to fame. He majored in business, but football remained his main focus.

“Johnny Football”: The College Football Star

Manziel’s time at Texas A&M rewrote the record books. After redshirting his freshman year, he exploded onto the scene in 2012, leading the Aggies to a stunning upset over Alabama.

Manziel’s stats in that season were staggering:

3,419 passing yards with 24 touchdowns
1,181 rushing yards with 19 touchdowns

His electrifying performances earned him numerous accolades, including the Heisman Trophy, making him the first-ever freshman to win the award. He added awards like the Davey O’Brien Award and SEC Freshman of the Year to his resume.

His sophomore season in 2013 was equally impressive, throwing for over 4,114 yards and recording 37 passing touchdowns. However, his college career was not without controversy, with allegations of him earning money from signing autographs. Something not allowed under the NCAA rules. Despite this, Johnny Manziel became a household name as “Johnny Football.”

The Myth of Oil Money

A recurring rumour during Manziel’s college years was about his supposed access to an oil fortune through his great-grandfather. However, in the Netflix documentary Untold: Johnny Football, he debunked this myth, revealing that much of his income during his college days came from selling autographed sports memorabilia.

Manziel admitted to earning $33,000 this way, which he used to fund his exuberant lifestyle during his time as an Aggie.

NFL Career and Financial Windfall

Having achieved legendary status in college football, Manziel entered the 2014 NFL Draft with sky-high expectations. Though not without concerns about his maturity and discipline, the Cleveland Browns took a gamble, selecting him with the 22nd overall pick in the first round.

Manziel signed a rookie contract worth $8.3 million over four years, including a $4.3 million signing bonus. On paper, it seemed like Manziel was set up for financial and professional success. Unfortunately, his NFL career never lived up to the hype.

Rookie Struggles

Manziel’s rookie season in 2014 was underwhelming. Completing only 18 of 35 pass attempts for 176 yards and two interceptions, his performance raised questions about his commitment to the game.

Second Season

Manziel showed improvement in 2015, recording 1,500 passing yards and seven touchdowns. However, off-field controversies ranging from partying to poor work ethic eroded the Browns’ trust in him.

By the end of the 2015 season, following allegations of domestic violence against his then-girlfriend, the Browns cut ties with Manziel, effectively ending his NFL career.

Ventures Abroad – CFL and AAF

Following his NFL exit, Manziel signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 2018. The deal was worth around $500,000 annually, but Manziel only appeared in five games before being traded to the Montreal Alouettes. He played 11 games for Montreal before being banned from the CFL altogether for failing to meet contractual obligations, including attendance at mental health treatment programs.

Manziel then turned to the Alliance of American Football (AAF), signing with the Memphis Express for $70,000. Unfortunately, the league folded during its inaugural season, cutting short his time there.

Fan Controlled Football (FCF)

Manziel’s most recent return to the gridiron came in the Fan Controlled Football League (FCF), an interactive indoor league where fans call the plays. Representing the Zappers, Manziel’s on-field stats have been modest, with 245 passing yards and three touchdowns to date.

Although the FCF hasn’t brought substantial income, it has kept Manziel connected to football and provided a platform for him to share his passion for the game.

Off-Field Issues and Financial Decline

Much of Manziel’s financial struggles stem from his off-field decisions. From hefty damages for wild parties to legal troubles, including the high-profile domestic violence charge, his conduct has drained significant portions of his earnings.

At one point, Manziel’s partying habits caused him to rack up nearly $20,000 in damages at a Los Angeles rental property. His high-risk lifestyle, combined with numerous legal and ethical missteps, has contributed to dwindling Johnny Manziel net worth.

Johnny Manziel Net Worth in 2025

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Johnny Manziel net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $1 million. This figure starkly contrasts with the multi-million-dollar contracts he signed during his football career.

While the reported earnings from the Netflix documentary Untold and his FCF appearances have provided modest boosts, Manziel’s financial story serves as a cautionary tale for young athletes.

Lessons from Johnny Manziel’s Story

Manziel’s financial and professional trajectory highlights important takeaways:

Discipline on and off the field matters: Raw talent can take you far, but work ethic and focus are crucial for sustained success.
Financial planning is key: Athletes earning millions in their 20s must adopt strategies to preserve wealth for the long term.
Seek help when needed: Manziel now openly discusses his mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder, advocating for greater understanding and support.

What’s Next for Johnny Manziel?

Despite his setbacks, Manziel’s story isn’t over. His recent endeavours, including the documentary and participation in the FCF, suggest a willingness to move forward. Whether he remains tied to football or explores new ventures, Manziel has an opportunity to redefine his legacy.