Net Worth Ranker
What Is Victor Cruz’s Net Worth?
Victor Cruz, a former American football wide receiver, has amassed a considerable net worth of $16 million. This financial standing reflects his successful career in the National Football League (NFL), endorsement deals, and subsequent ventures in media and entertainment. His peak annual salary reached $8.6 million, highlighting his value as a prominent player during his time with the New York Giants.
Early Career and NFL Success
Victor Cruz’s journey to NFL stardom began after going undrafted in 2010. The New York Giants signed him, and he quickly proved his worth. In a preseason game against the New York Jets in August 2010, Cruz scored three touchdowns, contributing significantly to the Giants’ 31-16 victory. By the end of the preseason, he topped the league with 297 receiving yards, earning him a spot on the Giants’ regular-season roster. However, a hamstring injury sidelined him for the remainder of the 2010 season after just three games.
In 2011, Cruz emerged as a key player for the Giants. During week 16, he tied an NFL record with a 99-yard touchdown catch. That same game, he broke Amani Toomer’s team record for single-season receiving yards. Cruz ended the 2011 season with 82 receptions for 1,536 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, earning him Second-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press. The Giants’ victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship secured their place in Super Bowl XLVI, where they defeated the New England Patriots 21–17.
A significant milestone in Cruz’s career was his contract extension with the Giants. In June 2013, he initially signed a $2.879 million, one-year restricted free agent tender. This was followed by a lucrative five-year contract extension in July, valued at $45.879 million. This contract underscored his importance to the team and reflected his on-field performance.
Injuries and Retirement
Cruz’s career faced challenges due to injuries. In an October 2014 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, he tore his patellar tendon, which ended his season prematurely. Further complications arose when he underwent surgery on his left calf, causing him to miss the entire 2015 season. In November 2015, he was placed on season-ending injured reserve. Despite these setbacks, Cruz made a comeback in September 2016, scoring a game-winning touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys. However, his return was short-lived, as the Giants released him in February 2017. After spending much of 2017 as a free agent, Cruz officially announced his retirement from the NFL on August 21, 2018.
Post-NFL Career and Media Ventures
Following his retirement, Victor Cruz transitioned into media and entertainment. He has worked as an analyst for ESPN, sharing his insights on football. Additionally, he hosted “The Cost of Winning Podcast,” further establishing his presence in the sports media landscape. Cruz also ventured into television, appearing in three episodes of HBO’s “Ballers” in 2015 and hosting the MTV series “The Challenge: Champs vs. Stars” in 2017. These endeavors have contributed to his continued income and enhanced his public profile.
Early Life and College Career
Born on November 11, 1986, in Paterson, New Jersey, Victor Michael Cruz is the son of Michael Walker and Blanca Cruz. He attended Paterson Catholic High School, where he excelled as a defensive back and wide receiver. During his senior year, he earned All-State honors, contributing to the team’s undefeated season and New Jersey Parochial Group I championship. That season, he scored 19 touchdowns and caught more than 40 passes.
Cruz’s college career at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) was marked by academic challenges initially. He was sent home twice for academic reasons before becoming eligible to play in 2007. By 2010, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Afro-American Studies. On the field, Cruz made a significant impact, scoring 11 touchdowns and accumulating nearly 2,000 receiving yards. In 2008 and 2009, he was recognized as a first-team All-Colonial Athletic Association wide receiver. His 131 receptions during his college career rank him 4th on UMass’ all time receptions list.
Personal Life and Relationships
Victor Cruz has a daughter named Kennedy, whose mother is Elaina Watley. He was also in a relationship with actress Karrueche Tran from late 2017 to early 2021. Tran is known for her role as Virginia Loc on the TNT series “Claws” and has won three Daytime Emmys for the web series “The Bay.”
In 2010, Cruz and his former teammate Nate Collins launched the Young Whales clothing line. He modeled the brand’s designs, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and interest in fashion.
Philanthropic Activities
Cruz has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy. After the tragic shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2014, he honored 6-year-old fan Jack Pinto, who died in the shooting. He wrote a tribute to Jack on his shoes for a game against the Atlanta Falcons, with “R.I.P. Jack Pinto” on one shoe and “Jack Pinto My Hero” on the other. He also visited Pinto’s family and gave Jack’s brother the gloves and cleats he wore in that game. Cruz stated that he felt it was important to pay his respects to Jack and offer comfort to his family.
Real Estate Investments
In 2013, Cruz purchased an 8,400 square foot home in New Jersey for $2.3 million. The seven-bedroom home, located on 2.9 acres and less than 20 miles from New York City, was listed for sale in 2019 for $2.75 million. Each bedroom features an en-suite bathroom, and the home includes a wet bar, two laundry rooms, a gas fireplace, and a spa bath with a Jacuzzi. This real estate investment reflects Cruz’s financial diversification and strategic asset management.
Victor Cruz’s Net Worth: A Summary
In summary, Victor Cruz’s net worth of $16 million is a result of his successful NFL career, endorsement deals, media appearances, and strategic investments. His journey from an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl champion and media personality highlights his talent, hard work, and entrepreneurial acumen. His peak salary of $8.6 million during his playing career underscores his value as a top-tier wide receiver. While injuries presented challenges, Cruz’s resilience and ability to transition into media and business ventures have sustained his financial success and public recognition. His real estate investments, such as the $2.3 million New Jersey home, further contribute to his overall net worth and financial stability. Victor Cruz’s net worth is a testament to his achievements both on and off the field.
