Net Worth Ranker
What Is Gale Sayers Net Worth’ Net Worth?
At the time of his death in 2020, Gale Sayers, the legendary Hall of Fame American professional football player, had a net worth of $50 million [1]. This substantial net worth reflected his successful career in both sports and business. Sayers, often hailed as one of the greatest running backs in football history, made a name for himself with his agility and elusiveness on the field [1].
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Gale Eugene Sayers was born on May 30, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas [1]. He spent his formative years in Omaha, Nebraska, where he honed his athletic abilities [1]. While attending Omaha Central High School, Sayers excelled in both football and track and field, setting a state record in the long jump [1]. His exceptional performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Kansas, where he continued to shine as a football player [1]. From 1962 to 1964, Sayers was a three-time All-Big Eight selection and a two-time consensus All-American in 1963 and 1964, solidifying his status as a college football star [1]. The University of Kansas honored Sayers by retiring his No. 48 jersey, and he was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame [1]. His college career laid the foundation for his future success in the NFL and contributed to his eventual net worth.
NFL Career and Achievements
In 1965, the Chicago Bears drafted Gale Sayers, marking the beginning of his professional football career [1]. Over the next six years, he played for the Bears, achieving numerous accolades and establishing himself as one of the league’s most dynamic players [1]. During his time with the Bears, Sayers was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a five-time AP First-Team All-Pro selection [1]. He also earned three Pro Bowl MVP awards, cementing his status as a dominant force on the field [1]. Sayers led the league in rushing in both 1966 and 1969, showcasing his exceptional talent and consistency [1]. In addition to his Pro Bowl accolades, Sayers was named UPI NFL Rookie of the Year and UPI NFL Comeback Player of the Year, further demonstrating his versatility and resilience [1]. In 1977, Sayers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the game [1]. The Chicago Bears also retired his No. 40 jersey in honor of his contributions to the team [1]. Despite his relatively short career, cut short by injuries, Sayers amassed impressive statistics, including 4,956 rushing yards with a 5.0 average per carry, 39 rushing touchdowns, 1,307 receiving yards on 112 receptions with nine touchdowns, and 3,172 return yards with eight return touchdowns [1]. While the specific salary details of his NFL contracts are not publicly available, his performance undoubtedly translated into significant earnings during his playing career, contributing to his overall net worth.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
After his NFL career, Gale Sayers transitioned into the business world, leveraging his fame and leadership skills to build a successful career as an entrepreneur [1]. He initially worked in the athletic department at his alma mater, the University of Kansas, gaining experience in administration and management [1]. In 1976, Sayers took on the role of athletic director at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, further honing his leadership abilities and expanding his professional network [1]. However, it was in 1984 that Sayers embarked on his most significant business venture, founding Crest Computer Supply Company [1]. The company was later renamed Sayers 40, Inc., and it evolved into a highly successful technology consulting firm [1]. Sayers 40, Inc. became one of the largest minority-owned information technology services firms in the U.S., serving numerous Fortune 1000 companies [1]. At its peak, the company generated annual revenues of $300 million, a testament to Sayers’ business acumen and strategic vision [1]. While specific details of his ownership stake and profit distribution within Sayers 40, Inc. are not publicly disclosed, it is clear that his entrepreneurial success played a substantial role in building his $50 million net worth.
Legacy and Personal Life
Gale Sayers’ legacy extends beyond his accomplishments on the football field and his success in the business world [1]. His younger brother, Ron, followed in his footsteps, playing running back for the San Diego Chargers of the AFL, while his older brother, Roger, excelled as a track and field athlete [1]. Sayers’ autobiography, “I Am Third,” inspired the movie “Brian’s Song,” which chronicled his friendship with Bears teammate Brian Piccolo, who died of cancer in 1970 [1]. The book and movie highlighted Sayers’ compassion and sportsmanship, further solidifying his image as a role model. In March 2017, Sayers’ wife, Ardythe, revealed that he had been diagnosed with dementia four years prior to his death, attributing the condition to his football career [1]. Despite his physical health, the disease significantly impacted his mental health and memory [1]. After battling dementia for several years, Gale Sayers passed away on September 23, 2020, at the age of 77 [1]. His $50 million net worth at the time of his death reflected his accomplishments in both sports and business, leaving behind a lasting legacy of excellence and perseverance.
