Net Worth Ranker
What Is Ickey Woods’ Net Worth?
Elbert L. “Ickey” Woods, the former American professional football player, has accumulated an estimated net worth of $1 million. This figure reflects his earnings primarily from his NFL career, endorsement deals, and subsequent business ventures.
Ickey Woods’ Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on February 28, 1966, in Fresno, California, Ickey Woods began his journey towards professional football at Edison High School, where he participated in multiple sports. His athletic prowess earned him a college scholarship to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). During his time with the UNLV Rebels, Ickey distinguished himself as a four-year letterwinner. His senior year in 1987 was particularly impressive, as he led the nation in rushing with 1,658 yards, averaging 6.4 yards per attempt. This achievement remains the second-most in Rebels history. Notably, he still holds the school record for single-game rushing attempts, recording 37 attempts in two separate games. In nine games, Ickey rushed for more than 100 yards and exceeded 200 yards in three games. His outstanding performance led to his recognition as a First-Team All Big West selection in 1987. Woods was later inducted into the UNLV Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998, cementing his legacy at the university.
Ickey Woods’ NFL Career and Earnings
Ickey Woods was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals as the 31st overall pick in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft. His rookie season was phenomenal, earning him an All-Pro selection and contributing to the Bengals’ AFC Championship win. That same year he was the AFC Rushing Touchdowns Leader and finished second in the NFL in touchdowns with 15. Woods also set a franchise rookie rushing record with 1,066 yards. The injuries that followed, were impactful to his overall earnings potential and contributed to the relatively short length of his professional career. While his specific contract details from 1988 are not publicly available, NFL rookie contracts in that era typically included a base salary, signing bonus, and performance-based incentives. Given his high draft position and immediate impact, it’s reasonable to assume his initial contract was a lucrative one for the time. It is also worth noting that in the 1980s, the scale of NFL contracts was significantly different than the multi-million dollar deals common today. While specifics for Woods’ salary are unavailable, understanding the general economic landscape of NFL contracts at the time provides valuable context.
The “Ickey Shuffle” and Endorsement Deals
Woods became a cultural phenomenon due to his signature end-zone celebration, the “Ickey Shuffle.” This dance, performed after each touchdown, catapulted him into the public consciousness and led to numerous endorsement opportunities. After retiring from the NFL, Ickey appeared in many commercials in which he performed his signature dance, the “Ickey Shuffle.” One notable endorsement deal came in 2014 with GEICO Insurance. In this national commercial, he performed the “Ickey Shuffle” while purchasing cold cuts at a deli counter. While the specific financial details of this GEICO deal are not public, national television commercials typically generate substantial income for the featured personalities. Beyond GEICO, Ickey has also been associated with local Cincinnati businesses and charities, leveraging his fame for smaller-scale endorsements and public appearances. The financial impact of these ventures contributes to his overall net worth. The lasting appeal of the “Ickey Shuffle” has allowed Woods to maintain a level of public visibility and marketability long after his playing days ended.
Post-NFL Ventures and Business Activities
After his NFL career, Ickey Woods transitioned into various business roles. He worked as a sales representative for a meat company, sold security systems, and owned a flooring store in Cincinnati. These ventures demonstrate his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to explore different avenues for income generation. Although the exact revenue figures for these businesses are not publicly available, they have undoubtedly contributed to his overall financial stability. In 2006, Ickey also served as an assistant coach for the Cincinnati Marshals of the National Indoor Football League. While coaching positions at this level may not be highly lucrative, they demonstrate his continued involvement in football and a desire to give back to the sport. Woods’ post-NFL activities reflect a common path for many retired athletes, who seek to leverage their name recognition and skills in business and community endeavors.
Personal Life and Philanthropic Efforts
Ickey Woods’ personal life has been marked by both success and tragedy. He was previously married to Chandra Baldwin, whom he coached on the Cincinnati Sizzle, a team he owned in the full-contact Women’s Football Alliance. Their son, Jovante, tragically passed away at the age of 16 due to a fatal asthma attack. In response to this loss, Ickey established the Jovante Woods Foundation to provide funding and education for asthma research. He also created the Ickey Woods Youth Foundation, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting youth and promoting education. These philanthropic endeavors reflect his values and dedication to making a positive impact on the community. Woods has six children in total. While the financial contributions to these foundations are not publicly disclosed, their existence underscores his commitment to using his resources and platform for charitable purposes. These acts of philanthropy further shape the public perception of Ickey Woods as not just a former football star, but also a compassionate and community-minded individual.
