Net Worth Ranker
What Is Steve Gleason Net Worth?
Steve Gleason, born Stephen Michael Gleason on March 19, 1977, in Spokane, Washington, is a former American professional football player. He is best known for his time as a safety with the New Orleans Saints in the National Football League (NFL). Beyond his football career, Gleason has become an advocate and inspiration for individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). As of 2023, Steve Gleason’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million.
Details of Steve Gleason’s Net Worth
Steve Gleason’s $1 million net worth is primarily derived from his career in the NFL and subsequent endeavors. After going undrafted in 2000, Gleason signed with the New Orleans Saints and played with the team from 2000 to 2006. His NFL contracts and salary contributed to his earnings. However, details regarding the specifics of his contracts, such as signing bonuses and annual salary figures, are not publicly available. Spotrac.com indicates his career earnings through 2025 is $0, however this does not provide accurate information regarding his prior earnings.
Following his retirement from the NFL in 2008, Gleason’s income streams have diversified. A significant source of income came from the 2016 documentary “Gleason,” which chronicled his life and battle with ALS. The documentary provided an intimate look into his personal life, raising awareness and generating revenue. Additionally, Gleason founded the Team Gleason Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that supports individuals with ALS. The foundation has provided over $20 million to help patients with “adventure, technology, equipment, and care services”. While Gleason is not directly compensated from the foundation, his role as founder and advocate has undoubtedly increased his public profile and potentially opened doors for other income opportunities.
In 2014, New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson donated $5 million to Steve Gleason to help with his care and to fund Team Gleason House, which supports 18 patients with neuromuscular disorders. This substantial donation, while not directly adding to Gleason’s net worth, significantly aided in his care and philanthropic efforts. It is important to differentiate between personal net worth and charitable contributions, as the donation was primarily purposed for Gleason’s healthcare and the foundation’s activities.
Career and Key Milestones
Steve Gleason’s football career began at Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane, where he earned defensive MVP awards. He continued his athletic pursuits at Washington State University, excelling in both football and baseball. Gleason was a four-year starter for the baseball team and set a record for triples. His college career laid the groundwork for his professional football career.
Gleason’s most iconic moment occurred on September 25, 2006, during the Saints’ first home game at the Louisiana Superdome after Hurricane Katrina. He blocked a punt that was recovered for a touchdown, symbolizing hope and resilience for New Orleans. This play led to the erection of a statue titled “Rebirth” outside the Superdome in his honor. In 2011, Gleason publicly revealed his diagnosis of ALS, which led to his retirement from the NFL. Despite his condition, he has remained active in advocacy and philanthropy. In 2015, he received the George Halas Award from the Pro Football Writers Association, and in 2020, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his contributions to ALS awareness, becoming the first NFL player to receive this honor. Most recently, in 2024, he was awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.
Gleason’s contributions extend beyond the football field. His advocacy led to the passing of the Steve Gleason Act in 2015, ensuring access to speech-generating devices for individuals affected by ALS and other neurological disorders. His memoir, “A Life Impossible,” released in 2024, provides an intimate look into his life, career, and journey with ALS. These achievements, while not directly reflected in monetary terms within his net worth, underscore his lasting impact and influence.
