Is Cadillac Williams still making money after retiring from the NFL? Many former athletes struggle financially after their playing days, but has he managed to stay financially stable?
This article takes a deep dive into Cadillac Williams net worth, earnings from his playing career, and how his financial situation has evolved over time.
Cadillac Williams Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | Carnell Lamar Williams |
Popular Name | Cadillac Williams |
Birth Date | April 21, 1982 |
Age (as of 03/15/2025) | 42 years old |
Birthplace | Gadsden, Alabama, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African American |
Education | Auburn University (Sociology) |
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse | Evan Christina Williams (m. 2011) |
Children | Two sons |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | Aaron Turner, Sherry Williams |
Height | 1.8 meters |
Net Worth (Estimated) | $8 million |
Source of Wealth | NFL Salary, Coaching Career |
What is the Net Worth of Cadillac Williams in 2025?
As of 2025, Cadillac Williams’ net worth is estimated at $8 million. His financial success comes primarily from his career in the NFL, where he signed a $31 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Despite facing severe injuries, he managed to secure earnings through both playing and coaching.
While $8 million is a substantial amount, it is modest compared to other former NFL players like Tom Brady or Peyton Manning, who have amassed hundreds of millions through endorsements and business ventures.
However, Williams has maintained financial stability, unlike many athletes who face bankruptcy post-retirement.
Related Figures in Cadillac Williams’ Career
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Auburn University
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Ronnie Brown
- Jon Gruden
- Jason Campbell
- Steven Jackson
- LeGarrette Blount
- Bo Jackson
- James Brooks
For more on the world’s wealthiest athletes and celebrities, check out this list of the richest celebrities.
Cadillac Williams Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Has He Earned Throughout His Career?
Cadillac Williams’ career earnings come mainly from his NFL contracts. After being drafted 5th overall in the 2005 NFL Draft, he signed a five-year, $31 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His rookie season was remarkable, earning him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award. However, injuries significantly impacted his financial trajectory.
Despite his success on the field, Williams never secured a second lucrative contract. His career earnings were affected by multiple knee injuries, which limited his playing time and contract potential.
What Were His Biggest NFL Contracts and Salaries?
Williams’ most notable contract was his rookie deal with the Buccaneers, valued at $31 million. This contract reflected the high expectations placed on him as a top-five draft pick.
However, he did not sign another major contract after that deal. When he joined the St. Louis Rams in 2011, it was on a much smaller contract as a backup running back. His salary during his Rams tenure was significantly lower, marking the end of his playing career.
How Did He Build His Wealth?
Williams’ wealth primarily comes from his NFL earnings, but his coaching career also contributed. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching, first at Auburn University, where he served as the running backs coach from 2019 to 2023.
In 2024, he took on a new role with the Las Vegas Raiders as their running backs coach, further supplementing his income. Coaching salaries are generally lower than player salaries, but they provide financial stability, which is crucial for former athletes.
What Financial Challenges Did He Face?
Like many professional athletes, Williams faced financial hurdles:
- Injuries impacting earnings: His torn patellar tendons in both knees drastically reduced his earning potential.
- Limited endorsement deals: Unlike higher-profile NFL players, he did not have major endorsements or sponsorships.
- Shortened playing career: His NFL career lasted only seven seasons, limiting long-term financial opportunities.
How Has His Career After Football Contributed to His Finances?
Williams made a smart move by transitioning into coaching, ensuring continued income after retirement. His coaching career has included:
- Auburn University Running Backs Coach (2019–2023)
- Interim Head Coach at Auburn (2022)
- Las Vegas Raiders Running Backs Coach (2024–2025)
This shift provided him with a stable salary, though coaching salaries do not compare to NFL player contracts.
What Factors Have Influenced His Financial Growth?
Several key factors have shaped his financial journey:
- NFL contract structure: Unlike quarterbacks or elite running backs, he never signed a major second contract.
- Coaching transition: His move into coaching has kept him financially afloat.
- Smart money management: Williams has avoided the financial pitfalls that many former NFL players face.
How Does His Wealth Compare to Other Former NFL Players?
Williams’ $8 million net worth is respectable but not on the level of NFL superstars. Here’s how he compares:
- Tom Brady – Over $300 million
- Peyton Manning – Over $250 million
- Bo Jackson – Estimated $25 million
- Ronnie Brown – Estimated $14 million
Williams falls somewhere in the middle—not struggling financially but also not at the elite level of wealth seen in the NFL’s biggest names.
What Are the Key Takeaways from His Financial Journey?
Williams’ story highlights both the rewards and risks of an NFL career. Despite earning millions early on, injuries prevented him from maximizing his financial potential. However, his coaching career has helped him maintain financial stability.
Key lessons from his financial journey include:
- Investing in a post-NFL career is crucial
- Injuries can drastically affect long-term earnings
- Smart financial decisions help sustain wealth
Conclusion
Cadillac Williams’ net worth of $8 million is a testament to both his NFL success and post-playing career decisions. While he never reached the financial heights of some NFL legends, he has managed to maintain a stable and respectable financial position.
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