What Is Jerry Kramer’s Net Worth?
As of recent estimates in early 2025, Jerry Kramer’s net worth is approximately $2 million. This valuation is based on his earnings from his professional football career, his work as an author, and his contributions as a sports commentator.
Early Life and Career Beginnings of Jerry Kramer
Gerald Louis “Jerry” Kramer was born on January 23, 1936, in Jordan, Montana. He later moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, where he attended Sandpoint High School. Kramer’s athletic talents earned him a scholarship to the University of Idaho (1955-1957), where he played college football. He distinguished himself as a versatile player, excelling on both sides of the ball as a lineman and also serving as the team’s kicker. In 1956, he received an honorable mention for All-American status. Beyond football, Kramer participated in track and field, setting a school record in the shot put. Kramer was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 4th round as the 39th overall pick in the 1958 NFL Draft.
Jerry Kramer’s NFL Career and Achievements
Kramer spent his entire 11-year NFL career (1958-1968) with the Green Bay Packers. His early years saw him earning a modest $8,000 in his first season. After a challenging first season, the arrival of coach Vince Lombardi marked a turning point for both Kramer and the team. Kramer played right guard, becoming a key component of the Packers’ offensive line during their dominant run in the 1960s. His contributions were vital in securing five NFL Championships (1961, 1962, 1965-1967) and victories in Super Bowls I and II. Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, including a broken ankle in 1961 requiring a permanent pin and intestinal infections in 1964 that necessitated eight surgeries, Kramer consistently returned to top form. Kramer’s achievements include being a five-time First-team All-Pro, a three-time Pro Bowl selection (1962, 1963, 1967), and being named to the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team and the NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team.
Income Sources and Assets
Kramer’s primary income sources throughout his life have been his professional football career, his work as an author, and his role as a sports commentator. While specific contract details from his playing days are not publicly available, it’s known that his early salary was around $8,000 a year and eventually reached $27,000 to $28,000 annually before retiring. In 2016, Kramer auctioned off several items, including his ring from Super Bowl I, for $125,000. The proceeds were intended to fund his grandchildren’s education. He also contributed money from a documentary project to start a charity comprised of former Packer players.
Hall of Fame and Legacy
Jerry Kramer’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018 marked a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest guards in NFL history. Prior to his induction, he was notably the only member of the NFL’s 50th Anniversary Team not in the Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. He gained the respect and admiration of many of his peers who he played with and against during his era.