Tom Jackson Net Worth

What is Tom Jackson's net worth and salary?

Tom Jackson is an American sports analyst and former professional football player who has a net worth of $10 million. Tom Jackson's career has spanned more than four decades. Known for his fierce competitiveness on the field and his insightful, charismatic presence on television, Jackson became a fan favorite both as a cornerstone of the Denver Broncos' defense and later as a longtime ESPN broadcaster. With 14 years in the NFL and nearly 30 years in sports media, he is widely regarded as one of the most respected figures in professional football.

Early Life and College Career

Born on April 4, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, Thomas Louie Jackson grew up in a working-class neighborhood and was an avid fan of the Cleveland Browns. He idolized legendary running back Jim Brown and aspired to follow in the footsteps of NFL greats. At John Adams High School, Jackson excelled in multiple sports, including football, baseball, and wrestling, though he was considered undersized for a linebacker at 5'11" and 220 pounds.

Despite his size, Jackson earned a scholarship to the University of Louisville, where he became a defensive standout. He led the Cardinals in tackles for three straight seasons and was twice named Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year, in 1970 and 1972. His intensity, leadership, and football IQ set the stage for his transition to the professional level.

NFL Career with the Denver Broncos

Tom Jackson was selected in the fourth round of the 1973 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos, where he would spend his entire 14-year career. He quickly emerged as a key player on the defensive unit and became a foundational member of the legendary "Orange Crush" defense of the late 1970s.

Over the course of 191 games with the Broncos, Jackson recorded 40 sacks, 20 interceptions, and three defensive touchdowns. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors. Jackson was a vocal team leader and emotional anchor, helping guide Denver to its first-ever Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XII against the Dallas Cowboys. His contributions were later honored with his induction into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1992.

(Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

Transition to Broadcasting

After retiring from football in 1986, Jackson transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, joining ESPN in 1987. He became a central figure on programs like "NFL Countdown" and "NFL Primetime," working closely with longtime collaborator Chris Berman. Known for his passionate delivery and sharp analysis, Jackson helped define the voice of ESPN's NFL coverage for nearly three decades.

During his tenure, Jackson was widely praised for his authenticity, emotional intelligence, and player-first perspective. In 2015, his contributions to football broadcasting were recognized when he received the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Jackson retired from ESPN in 2016 after 29 years of broadcasting, leaving behind a legacy of credibility and heart.

Personal Life

Tom Jackson lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife Jennifer, whom he met at the Pro Bowl in 1990. The couple has two daughters, Taylor and Morgan. Jackson also had a daughter named Andrea from a previous relationship. In 1997, Andrea tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of nine, a devastating event that Jackson has spoken about publicly as a profound moment in his life.

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