Net Worth Ranker
What Is Barry Switzer’s Net Worth?
Barry Switzer, a prominent figure in American football coaching, boasts a net worth of approximately $7 million. This financial standing is primarily attributed to his successful coaching career, which spanned from 1962 to 1997. His career encompassed both college and professional football, where he achieved remarkable success and secured a place among the most accomplished coaches in the sport’s history.
Barry Switzer’s Rise to Coaching Prominence
Switzer’s coaching journey commenced in 1962 at the University of Arkansas, where he served as an assistant coach. However, it was his tenure as the head coach of the University of Oklahoma from 1973 to 1988 that propelled him to national recognition. During his time at Oklahoma, Switzer led the Sooners to three national championships in 1974, 1975, and 1985, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier college football coach. Furthermore, his teams captured 12 Big Eight Conference titles, showcasing the program’s sustained dominance under his leadership. Switzer’s strategic approach, characterized by an aggressive, run-heavy offensive scheme coupled with a formidable defense, transformed Oklahoma into a college football powerhouse. His remarkable .837 winning percentage at Oklahoma remains one of the highest in the annals of college football.
In 1994, Switzer transitioned to the National Football League (NFL), assuming the role of head coach for the Dallas Cowboys. This move marked a significant turning point in his career, as he ventured into the realm of professional football. In his second season with the Cowboys, Switzer guided the team to a Super Bowl XXX victory. His tenure with the Cowboys, however, was marred by controversies. Following the 1997 season, Switzer retired from coaching, bringing an end to his career on the sidelines.
Post-Coaching Career and Other Ventures
Following his retirement from coaching, Switzer has remained active in the world of football, serving as a commentator and analyst for various college football broadcasts. His insights and expertise have provided valuable commentary for fans and viewers alike. In addition to his broadcasting endeavors, Switzer authored his autobiography, “Bootlegger’s Boy,” published in 1990. The book offers a candid and revealing account of his early life and coaching career, providing readers with a glimpse into the experiences and challenges that shaped his path.
Switzer’s involvement extends beyond the realm of sports and media. He is also a business owner with several ventures in Norman, Oklahoma. Switzer’s Locker Room, Switzer’s Vineyards are among his business interests in the Norman area. These ventures reflect his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the local community.
Early Life and Background
Barry Layne Switzer was born on October 5, 1937, in Crossett, Arkansas. His parents were Mary Louise and Frank Mays Switzer. His father was involved in bootlegging alcohol and faced arrest at their family home. Barry and his younger brother, Donny, were raised by their mother. Tragedy struck when his mother died by suicide on August 26, 1959. In 1972, his father was murdered.
Switzer’s athletic abilities earned him an athletic scholarship to play football for the University of Arkansas. As one of the Razorbacks’ “Tri-Captains,” he contributed to the team’s success, leading them to a 9-2 record, a share of the Southwest Conference championship, and a Gator Bowl victory over Georgia Tech in 1960.
After graduating, Switzer briefly served in the U.S. Army before returning to Arkansas as an assistant coach. This marked the beginning of his coaching career and laid the foundation for his future achievements.
Coaching Career at the University of Oklahoma
Following the 1966 season, Switzer departed Arkansas to join the University of Oklahoma as an assistant coach under Jim Mackenzie. Mackenzie’s untimely death in 1967 led to Chuck Fairbanks taking over as head coach. Switzer remained an assistant coach under Fairbanks, gaining valuable experience and insights. In 1973, Switzer was appointed as the head coach at Oklahoma. Under his leadership, the team achieved remarkable success, going undefeated in both 1973 and 1974. Oklahoma secured national championships in 1974, 1975, and 1985, cementing Switzer’s legacy as one of the most successful coaches in college football history. His coaching career at Oklahoma ended in 1989 when Oklahoma was placed on probation by the NCAA.
NFL Career with the Dallas Cowboys
Switzer returned to coaching in 1994, this time in the professional ranks with the Dallas Cowboys. He was hired by team owner Jerry Jones to succeed Jimmy Johnson, who had led the team to two Super Bowl victories. Switzer achieved immediate success, leading the Cowboys to a 12-4 record in his first season. In his second season in 1995, the Dallas Cowboys won Super Bowl XXX, defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-17. Following a disappointing 6-10 season in 1997, Switzer resigned as head coach of the Cowboys, concluding his tenure with a 40-24 career NFL coaching record.
Personal Life and Accolades
Barry resides in Norman, Oklahoma, with his wife, Becky. In 2000, Switzer was named an honorary member of the Oklahoma Kappa chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. His contributions to college football were recognized with his election into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002. In 2004, Barry received the Jim Thorpe Lifetime Achievement Award, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. In 2007, he joined the Fox NFL Pregame show. Barry’s success and contributions have earned him recognition and respect in both the sports and business communities.
His ownership of ventures like Switzer’s Locker Room and Switzer’s Vineyards showcases his entrepreneurial spirit. Barry Switzer’s legacy is a testament to his success in both sports and business.
