Does an NFL fullback make millions?
While quarterbacks and star players dominate headlines, fullbacks like Derek Watt have built impressive financial careers through strategic contracts, endorsements, and smart investments.
Known for his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers, Watt carved out a role not just as a player but also as a key contributor on special teams.
But how has his financial status evolved over the years, and what are his income sources beyond football? Let’s dive into his salary, contracts, and financial outlook.
Derek Watt Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Derek John Watt |
| Popular Name | Derek Watt |
| Birth Date | November 7, 1992 |
| Age | 32 (as of March 6, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Pewaukee High School, University of Wisconsin-Madison |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Gabriella Justin (m. 2018) |
| Children | 2 (Logan James Watt, Brayden George Watt) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | J.J. Watt, T.J. Watt |
| Parents | Connie Watt, John Watt |
| Height | 1.88 m |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
| Source of Wealth | NFL salary, endorsements, media appearances |
What Is the Net Worth of Derek Watt in 2025?
As of 2025, Derek Watt’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million. While this figure is lower than his brother J.J. Watt, who has a net worth in the tens of millions, it still places him among financially successful NFL players. His wealth primarily comes from his NFL contracts, endorsements, and his role in Ultimate Tag, a TV show he co-hosted with his brothers.
His three-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers was worth $9.75 million, significantly boosting his earnings. Unlike star quarterbacks who make hundreds of millions, fullbacks like Watt rely on smart contract negotiations and endorsements to build financial stability.
Related People & Teams:
- J.J. Watt
- T.J. Watt
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Los Angeles Chargers
- San Diego Chargers
- Melvin Gordon
- University of Wisconsin
- Ultimate Tag
- Subway
- NFL
For more insights into the financial status of top athletes, check out these high-earning celebrities.
Derek Watt Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn from His NFL Career?
Derek Watt’s NFL salary has varied based on contracts and performance incentives. He started with the San Diego Chargers in 2016, later rebranded as the Los Angeles Chargers, where he played until 2019. His role as a fullback and special teams player helped him secure his $9.75 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020.
Though his salary wasn’t among the highest in the league, his ability to contribute on special teams made him valuable. His NFL career earnings come from a combination of:
- Base salaries from the Chargers and Steelers
- Signing bonuses and incentives
- Performance-based earnings
By the end of the 2022 season, Watt had played seven seasons in the NFL before announcing his retirement in March 2024.
What Are His Major Sources of Income?
Beyond his NFL salary, Watt has other income streams:
- Endorsements: Appeared in a Subway commercial with his family
- Television Appearances: Co-hosted Ultimate Tag
- Merchandising & Licensing: Earnings from NFL branding and sponsorships
His financial success is a combination of his contracts, endorsements, and media ventures.
How Did His NFL Contracts Shape His Financial Growth?
Derek Watt was drafted 198th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. His first contract was a modest deal, but his blocking ability and versatility helped him secure a better contract in 2020 with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Key details about his financial journey:
- 2016–2019: Played for the Chargers, earning an entry-level NFL salary
- 2020–2022: Signed a $9.75 million, 3-year contract with the Steelers
- 2022–2023: Entered free agency but did not sign with a team
- 2024: Announced retirement from the NFL
His earnings highlight the financial challenges and opportunities NFL fullbacks face. Unlike quarterbacks or wide receivers, fullbacks often have shorter careers and need to maximize their earnings early.
What Role Do Sponsorships and Endorsements Play in His Income?
While Derek Watt isn’t among the most endorsed NFL players, he has appeared in several commercials. His most notable appearance was in a Subway commercial alongside his brothers and parents, which helped boost his brand.
Endorsement earnings can add millions to an athlete’s net worth, but fullbacks don’t attract the same sponsorships as high-profile quarterbacks. However, his family’s popularity in the NFL helped him land some deals.
How Has His Financial Status Changed After Retirement?
Since his NFL retirement in 2024, Watt has been exploring new financial opportunities. Many retired athletes turn to:
- Coaching or sports broadcasting
- Real estate or business investments
- Endorsement deals and public appearances
While his NFL salary is no longer active, he can still generate income through strategic investments and business ventures.
What Are His Future Financial Prospects?
Now that Watt is retired, his future financial prospects depend on how he manages his post-NFL career. Some possibilities include:
- Coaching or training young athletes
- Expanding his involvement in TV shows or media
- Investing in business ventures, like many retired players do
If managed wisely, his $3 million net worth can continue to grow through investments and smart financial decisions.
Conclusion
Derek Watt may not have earned quarterback-level money, but his $3 million net worth shows that even specialized NFL players can build wealth with the right strategies.
His NFL career, endorsements, and media projects have helped him maintain financial stability.
For more insights on celebrity finances, visit Aupeo and explore more athlete earnings. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
