Tony Dorsett is a famous American personality who has made a name for himself, thanks to his passion and career in football. While he retired in 1989 from active football, he has remained remembered especially for his efforts in the Dallas Cowboys, and Denver Broncos.
The American professional football running back was raised in western Pennsylvania, where he began playing college football for the Pittsburgh Panthers. During his time with the Panthers, he led them to the national championship during his senior year.
Tony was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1977 NFL draft during the first round. He was the NFL rookie of the year and played for the team for eleven seasons until 1987. So how much net worth does the legendary footballer have to his name?
Tony Dorsett’s Net Worth
The former American football player has a net worth of $5 million. The American personality played with the NFL for over a decade, enabling him to earn a net worth. He played with the Dallas Cowboys for eleven seasons and later with the Denver Broncos for two seasons before he retired in 1989.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Tony was born to Wes and Myrtle and grew up in Aquippa, Pennsylvania. He joined Hopewell High School, where he played football and basketball. As a high school sophomore in 1970, he played cornerback because his teachers did not believe he would play running back because of his size.
In 1971, Dorsett and Michael Kimbrough competed for the running back position. Dorsett took the title after a screen pass of 75 yards during the season-opening. In 1971, Dorsett became the Allstate selection after he covered 1034 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also led the Vikings to a 9-1 season.
At the end of his senior season, Dorsett played at the Big 33 Football Classic where his future coach Johnny Majors saw him play live.
College and NFL Career
Dorsett undertook his college education at the University of Pittsburgh. He became the first freshman in 29 years to be named All-American. He finished second in the nation after rushing 1586 yards in 11 games. He also led the Pittsburgh Hunters to winning their first season in 10 years.
The school convinced Dorsett to go by the name Tony although his name was Anthony, to match the initials TD in touchdown. During his freshman year at Pitt, he welcomed his son Anthony Dorsett on September 14, 1973. In 1973, he faced a lot of criticism when it became known that his son was born out of wedlock.
Some criticized that he should drop out of school and marry to support his family. Dorsett believed the best way to care for his son was through playing football, and his great skills saved him. Dorsett shined in college and he set numerous records while breaking many others.
Despite some teams being skeptical of Dorsett’s ability to play professional football because of his small size, he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys. He signed a five-year contract for $1.1 million.
He went on to play for the Cowboys for eleven seasons before he was traded to the Denver Broncos.
