Overview

Justin Smith, nicknamed “the Cowboy”, is a retired American football player who was a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Missouri Tigers, earning All-American honors. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals for seven seasons after being chosen with the fourth overall pick in the 2001 NFL draft. Smith also played seven seasons for the San Francisco 49ers. During his career he was selected for five consecutive Pro Bowls from 2009 to 2013.

What Is Justin Smith’s Net Worth?

Justin Smith, a retired American football defensive end, has an estimated net worth of $18 million. This wealth primarily stems from his successful 14-year career in the National Football League (NFL), playing for both the Cincinnati Bengals and the San Francisco 49ers.

Details of Justin Smith’s NFL Earnings and Contracts

Smith’s NFL career earnings total $78,244,000. His contracts included:

  • Cincinnati Bengals (2001-2007): Initially drafted by the Bengals as the 4th overall pick in 2001, he signed a six-year, $10 million contract. In 2007, the Bengals used a franchise tag on him, resulting in a one-year contract worth $8.64 million. His earnings with the Bengals include:
    • 2001-02: $2.3 Million
    • 2002-03: $1.1 Million
    • 2003-04: $1.3 Million
    • 2004-05: $1.6 Million
    • 2005-06: $1.8 Million
    • 2006-07: $2.1 Million
    • 2007-08: $8.6 Million
  • San Francisco 49ers (2008-2014): Smith signed a six-year, $45 million deal with the 49ers in 2008. His earnings with the 49ers include:
    • 2008-09: $12.3 Million
    • 2009-10: $8.8 Million

Notably, in 2013, Justin Smith negotiated his contract himself and provided the 49ers with a hometown discount. The six-year contract signed in 2008 averaged $7.5 million per year.

Justin Smith’s Early Career and Accomplishments

Born on September 30, 1979, in Jefferson City, Missouri, Justin Smith showcased his football talents at the University of Missouri, where he earned All-American honors before entering the NFL. He was drafted into the NFL in 2001. During his time with the Bengals, he achieved the fifth position on the Bengals’ all-time sacks list with 34 sacks by his fifth year. From 2009 to 2012, he was selected for four consecutive Pro Bowls while playing for San Francisco. In 2012, he was ranked as the 17th best player in the NFL’s Top 100 players.

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