Juwan Johnson, a talented NFL player for the New Orleans Saints, has captured the attention of football fans and analysts alike. As a tight end who was initially an undrafted player, Johnson has worked hard to build his career, proving himself as a valuable asset to the Saints. But beyond his success on the field, many are curious about his financial standing, particularly his net worth and how his financial journey reflects both his career and broader trends within the NFL.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore Juwan Johnson’s net worth, his career development, and how his earnings and financial decisions reflect those of other NFL players. From his early career struggles to his growing recognition in the NFL, to his smart financial decisions and possible investments, we will look at the journey of this rising star. This deep dive into Juwan Johnson’s life, career, and finances provides a detailed and insightful look into how NFL players build their net worth over time.
Early Career Path: From Newark to the NFL
Growing Up in Newark, New Jersey
Born on July 13, 1996, in Newark, New Jersey, Juwan Johnson was no stranger to hard work and determination. Growing up in a city with a rich sports culture, Johnson was drawn to athletics from a young age. At Saint Peter’s Preparatory School, he excelled in both football and basketball, showing early signs of his athletic prowess. His standout performances in high school football earned him a scholarship to the University of Oregon, one of the most recognized programs in college football.
Johnson’s journey from Newark to Oregon marked the first step in his football career, but it wasn’t without its challenges. Balancing academics and athletics, he worked tirelessly to prove himself on the football field while also pursuing a degree in sociology. This determination to succeed both academically and athletically would become a hallmark of his professional career.
College Career at the University of Oregon
At the University of Oregon, Johnson played for the Oregon Ducks football team. While at Oregon, Johnson’s ability to contribute in key moments started to shine through, particularly during his junior year. His large frame (6’4” and 231 lbs) and strong hands made him a reliable target for the Ducks’ quarterbacks. Although he did not lead the team in receiving yards, his versatility and work ethic helped the Ducks secure important victories.
Despite these successes, Johnson’s college career didn’t feature the eye-popping statistics often associated with future NFL stars. He wasn’t projected to be a high pick in the NFL Draft, which added to the challenges he would face as he pursued a professional career.
Going Undrafted: The Turning Point in Juwan Johnson’s Career
When Juwan Johnson entered the 2020 NFL Draft, he went undrafted. For many young players, not hearing their name called during the draft can be a devastating blow. The path for undrafted players is often more difficult, as they have to fight for a spot on a team without the guaranteed contracts or media attention given to drafted players.
However, Johnson’s persistence and potential caught the attention of the New Orleans Saints, who signed him as an undrafted free agent. This was the start of Johnson’s journey into the NFL, and though the path wasn’t easy, it was filled with opportunity. The Saints, known for their ability to develop players, gave Johnson the platform he needed to prove himself.
Juwan Johnson’s NFL Career: Rising Through the Ranks
Overcoming Challenges in the NFL
In his rookie season, Johnson faced the same challenges many undrafted players do: learning the ropes, adjusting to the pace of the NFL, and competing for playing time. Despite these challenges, Johnson quickly proved his worth on the Saints’ roster. In his debut season, he played in 16 games, scoring his first touchdown in a memorable matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
This touchdown wasn’t just a personal milestone; it symbolized Johnson’s determination to overcome the odds. By scoring against a strong team like Tampa Bay, Johnson made a statement: he belonged in the NFL.
Becoming a Key Player for the Saints
By his second season in 2021, Johnson had grown into a more prominent role within the New Orleans Saints offense. As a tight end, his versatility allowed him to become a reliable option for the team’s quarterbacks. Johnson finished the 2021 season with 13 receptions, 189 yards, and three touchdowns—an impressive stat line for a player who had started as an undrafted free agent.
Johnson’s progress has been noticeable both to fans and coaches. His ability to make big plays in critical moments, combined with his strong hands and physicality, has made him a favorite among Saints fans. More importantly, it has earned him recognition from coaches and teammates alike, who have praised his work ethic and determination to improve.
Earning His Keep: Contract and Earnings Breakdown
| Year | Contract | Salary | Performance Bonuses | Total Earnings |
| 2020 | 3-year deal with the Saints | $1.5 million | N/A | $1.5 million |
| 2021 | Performance-based incentives | $750,000 | $150,000 | $900,000 |
| 2022 | Salary increase with contract renewal | $850,000 | $200,000 | $1.05 million |
| 2023 | Potential new contract (projected) | $1.5 million | TBD | TBD |
Johnson’s earnings have grown over time, particularly as he secured his spot in the New Orleans Saints’ lineup. His initial contract was worth $1.5 million over three years, which is a standard contract for undrafted free agents. As his role on the team expanded, so did his salary, with performance bonuses playing a significant part in his overall earnings.
By 2024, Johnson’s net worth is estimated at around $2 million. This figure accounts for both his salary and bonuses, as well as potential endorsements from brands like Nike and Under Armour. For a player who started as an undrafted player, this is an impressive achievement.
Juwan Johnson’s Net Worth: Breaking It Down
Financial Growth and Net Worth
At this stage in his career, Juwan Johnson’s net worth stands at approximately $2 million. This is a solid start for an NFL player who is still relatively early in his professional journey. It’s worth noting that this figure is likely to grow as Johnson continues to develop his skills, secure new contracts, and potentially land additional endorsement deals.
To understand how Johnson’s financial position compares to other NFL players, consider the following:
| NFL Player | Net Worth (2024) |
| Patrick Mahomes | $40+ million |
| Alvin Kamara | $8 million |
| Michael Thomas | $20 million |
| Juwan Johnson | $2 million |
While Johnson’s net worth may not rival that of established stars like Patrick Mahomes or Michael Thomas, it is important to remember that his career is still in its early stages. For an undrafted player, reaching a $2 million net worth in just a few years is a significant accomplishment.
Endorsements and Other Sources of Income
In addition to his NFL salary, Juwan Johnson has begun to earn money from endorsements. Companies such as Nike and Under Armour often seek out up-and-coming NFL players to promote their products. While the exact figures of these deals are not publicly available, it’s safe to assume that they contribute meaningfully to Johnson’s overall income.
Endorsements provide NFL players with an opportunity to build their brand and increase their financial worth. As Johnson’s star continues to rise, it’s likely that he will land more lucrative deals, further boosting his net worth.
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Investments, Financial Planning, and Life Beyond Football
The Importance of Financial Planning for NFL Players
For NFL players like Juwan Johnson, financial planning is crucial. With the average NFL career lasting only about 3.3 years, players must make the most of their earnings during their playing years and plan for life after football. Johnson, like many other NFL players, is likely considering various investment opportunities to grow his wealth over the long term.
Possible Investments for Johnson
Although specific details about Juwan Johnson’s investments have not been disclosed, it’s common for NFL players to diversify their income streams through a variety of ventures. Some popular areas of investment include:
- Real Estate: Many NFL players invest in real estate, buying homes or rental properties to generate passive income.
- Business Ventures: Some players choose to start their own businesses, such as restaurants or clothing lines, using their fame to attract customers.
- Sports Camps: Establishing youth sports camps is another common venture for NFL players, allowing them to give back to the community while generating income.
By investing wisely, Johnson can set himself up for long-term financial success, ensuring that he has a stable income even after his football career ends.
Learning from Other NFL Players
Many NFL players have set strong examples of how to manage finances and build wealth beyond their playing years. Alvin Kamara, a teammate of Johnson on the New Orleans Saints, is known for his
smart financial decisions and careful spending habits. Kamara famously revealed that he hasn’t spent a dime of his NFL salary, relying solely on endorsement money to cover his expenses.
Similarly, Patrick Mahomes has made significant investments, including becoming a part-owner of the Kansas City Royals, further boosting his net worth. Michael Thomas, another Saints star, has also made investments in businesses and real estate, securing his financial future.
Johnson has a wealth of examples to follow, and as he continues to build his financial portfolio, it’s likely that he will look to these veteran players for inspiration.
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What Does Juwan Johnson’s Lifestyle Look Like?
The Lifestyle of a Rising NFL Star
As a young NFL player, Juwan Johnson enjoys a comfortable lifestyle. His growing earnings allow him to live in a way that reflects both his professional success and his prudent financial planning.
Some common aspects of the lifestyle for players like Johnson include:
- Real Estate: Many NFL players purchase luxury homes early in their careers. Johnson may have invested in property as part of his financial strategy.
- Luxury Cars: It’s not uncommon for NFL players to drive high-end cars, and Johnson may own a few luxury vehicles as part of his lifestyle.
- Travel: During the offseason, many players take advantage of their free time to travel, either for leisure or to participate in promotional events.
However, like many players who have faced the uncertainty of going undrafted, Johnson likely balances his spending with long-term financial planning, ensuring that he remains financially secure even after his football career ends.
Giving Back to the Community
Many NFL players, including Juwan Johnson, take the opportunity to give back to their communities. This might involve running youth sports camps, participating in charity events, or engaging in community outreach programs. Johnson’s roots in Newark, New Jersey, may inspire him to return to his hometown to support local initiatives, especially those related to youth athletics.
Conclusion:
Juwan Johnson is an example of a player who has overcome the odds to build a successful career in the NFL. From his early days as an undrafted player to his role as a key contributor to the New Orleans Saints, Johnson has proven himself both on and off the field. His current net worth of $2 million reflects his growing success, but it’s clear that this is just the beginning of his financial journey.
As Johnson continues to develop as a player, secure new contracts, and explore endorsement opportunities, his financial success is likely to grow. With the right financial planning and smart investments, Johnson could significantly increase his net worth in the coming years, following in the footsteps of other NFL stars who have successfully transitioned from players to business moguls.
For now, Juwan Johnson’s journey is an inspiring story of perseverance, talent, and smart financial decision-making, offering valuable lessons not only for athletes but for anyone looking to build and secure long-term wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does 83 on the Saints make?
Juwan Johnson, who wears number 83 for the New Orleans Saints, earned around $850,000 in salary during the 2022 season, with total earnings including performance bonuses reaching over $1 million.
Where is Juwan Johnson from?
Juwan Johnson is from Newark, New Jersey.
What is Keyshawn Johnson’s net worth?
Keyshawn Johnson’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, largely built from his NFL career and post-retirement ventures in broadcasting and business.
How much does Juwan Johnson weigh?
Juwan Johnson weighs approximately 231 pounds (105 kg).
