Why They Rank
NFL career earnings of $269M. All-time passing yardage leader at retirement. Franchise restaurant portfolio. Beloved figure in New Orleans post-Katrina.
The Fortune
Drew Brees earned approximately $269 million in NFL salary over 20 seasons with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints, retiring as the NFL's all-time passing yardage leader (since surpassed by Tom Brady). His decision to sign with the Saints after Hurricane Katrina in 2006 made him one of the most beloved figures in New Orleans history, and that loyalty was monetized through deep endorsements with local and national brands.
Brees's endorsement portfolio included Nike, Wrangler, Procter & Gamble, Verizon, and AdvoCare. He also owned multiple Jimmy John's and Dunkin' Donuts franchise locations, applying a franchise model to his business portfolio that generated steady income beyond playing. His real estate investments in the New Orleans area have appreciated significantly as the city rebuilt and thrived.
Post-retirement, Brees briefly worked as an NFL analyst for NBC before stepping away from broadcasting. He has focused on his business ventures and investments, including a stake in multiple Dunkin' locations and various New Orleans-based businesses. His net worth of $160 million reflects enormous career earnings in a city that worshipped him.
Wealth Source
NFL salary, endorsements, franchise ownership, media career
Top Endorsements
Fun Facts
Brees signed with the Saints after Hurricane Katrina when no other top-tier quarterback would go to New Orleans, a decision that made him a civic hero.
He owned over 25 franchise restaurant locations at one point, making him one of the most prolific franchise owners among active NFL players.
His 80,358 career passing yards were the most in NFL history when he retired, a record that has since been broken by Tom Brady.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the richest athlete of all time?
Michael Jordan is the richest athlete of all time with an estimated net worth of $3.5 billion. His wealth comes primarily from the Jordan Brand, the sale of the Charlotte Hornets, and decades of endorsement deals. His NBA playing salary was just $94 million -- a fraction of his total fortune.
How do athletes build wealth beyond their playing salary?
The wealthiest athletes build wealth through endorsement deals, equity stakes in companies, brand ownership, franchise ownership, venture capital, and real estate. The key insight is taking equity over flat endorsement fees whenever possible -- turning short-term fame into long-term compounding assets.
Which athletes are billionaires?
As of 2026, four athletes have confirmed billionaire status: Michael Jordan ($3.5B), Tiger Woods ($1.3B), LeBron James ($1.2B), and Magic Johnson ($1.2B). Several others are approaching the threshold, including Arnold Palmer's estate ($875M), Lionel Messi ($650M), and Michael Schumacher ($600M).
Get Glen’s Updates
Investing insights, new tools, and whatever I’m building this week. Free. No spam.
Unsubscribe anytime. I respect your inbox more than Congress respects property rights.
Keep Exploring
Top 25 Richest Athletes
See the full ranked list of the wealthiest athletes of all time.
Read moreTop 25 Basketball Players
The greatest basketball players of all time, ranked.
Read moreBillionaires & Icons
Profiles of the world's most successful investors and builders.
Read moreGreatest Trades Ever
The most legendary investment decisions in financial history.
Read moreTop 25 Value Investors
The greatest value investors of all time, ranked.
Read moreCelebrity Superpowers
Every celebrity has a superpower. We identified all of them.
Read more