Cris Collinsworth, a former NFL star, has transformed his career from being a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals to becoming a highly successful sports broadcaster. In 2024, his net worth is estimated at $25 million, built from a combination of his long NFL career, an impressive broadcasting career, and smart business moves. As the lead analyst for NBC Sports’ Sunday Night Football, Collinsworth earns a hefty salary of $12.5 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid sports commentators in the industry. But how did this former NFL player turn into a broadcasting icon? Let’s dive into his fascinating journey.
Early Life and Education
Cris Collinsworth was born in Dayton, Ohio, but his family moved to Florida when he was young. His parents, both educators, played a huge role in shaping his disciplined approach to life. Collinsworth attended Astronaut High School in Florida, where he quickly stood out in sports. He was not just a football star but also excelled in track, winning the state championship in the 100-yard dash.
After high school, Collinsworth attended the University of Florida, where he initially played as a quarterback before transitioning to a wide receiver. This shift in position turned out to be a smart move, as he quickly became one of the best receivers in college football, finishing his career with 1,937 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. His college success paved the way for his future in the NFL.
NFL Career
In 1981, Cris Collinsworth was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round. Right from his rookie season, he made a name for himself, setting a franchise record with 67 receptions. Over his eight-year NFL career, Collinsworth proved to be one of the most productive receivers in Bengals history, with 417 career receptions, 6,698 receiving yards, and 36 touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times, and his performance helped the Bengals reach the Super Bowl twice.
Collinsworth’s combination of height and speed made him a difficult match-up for defenders. After retiring from the NFL in 1988, he was already thinking ahead, preparing to transition into the next phase of his career—sports broadcasting.
Broadcasting Career
After hanging up his cleats, Cris Collinsworth smoothly transitioned into his broadcasting career. His first role was as a radio show host in Cincinnati. Soon after, he joined HBO’s Inside the NFL, where his sharp analytical skills gained attention. In 1990, he joined NBC Sports and later moved to Fox Sports in 1998, where he became part of their lead NFL broadcast team.
By 2009, Collinsworth had become the lead analyst for Sunday Night Football, replacing the legendary John Madden. His ability to break down complex NFL data and offer clear, insightful commentary made him a fan favorite. Collinsworth has won 17 Sports Emmy Awards, a testament to his talent as a sports broadcaster.
Cris Collinsworth’s Business Ventures: Pro Football Focus
Outside of broadcasting, Cris Collinsworth made smart investments that significantly boosted his net worth. In 2014, he became the majority owner of Pro Football Focus (PFF), a sports analytics company that provides advanced NFL data and statistics. Under his ownership, PFF grew rapidly, becoming an essential tool for NFL teams and media outlets.
In 2021, Silver Lake Partners acquired a minority stake in PFF for $50 million, valuing the company in the nine-figure range. This move not only increased Collinsworth’s financial wealth but also cemented his legacy as a pioneer in sports analytics.
| Pro Football Focus Key Stats | Details |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Majority Owner | Cris Collinsworth |
| Valuation | Nine figures |
| Notable Investment | Silver Lake Partners – $50M Minority Stake |
Cris Collinsworth Net Worth and Salary
By 2024, Cris Collinsworth’s net worth has reached an impressive $25 million. His primary income comes from his broadcasting salary, where he earns $12.5 million annually from NBC Sports. This contract places him among the top-paid sports commentators in the U.S. His involvement in Pro Football Focus also contributes significantly to his overall wealth.
While his NFL career provided a strong foundation for his earnings, it’s his career as a sports analyst and his smart business ventures that have taken his financial success to new heights.
Cris Collinsworth Contract
In 2021, Cris Collinsworth signed a new contract with NBC Sports, locking in a $12.5 million annual salary. This deal ensured that he would remain the lead analyst for Sunday Night Football and continue covering major events like the Super Bowl. His contract has made him one of the most influential voices in sports broadcasting.
Cris Collinsworth Salary
At $12.5 million a year, Cris Collinsworth’s salary is one of the highest among sports broadcasters. His earnings reflect his importance in the NFL commentary world, and his experience in analyzing NFL data has kept him in high demand. Compared to other sports broadcasters, Collinsworth’s salary ranks in the top tier.
Cris Collinsworth Endorsements
Unlike many other NFL veterans, Cris Collinsworth has not heavily pursued endorsements throughout his career. One of his few major deals has been with Western & Southern Financial Group, but his focus has remained on broadcasting and business.
Cris Collinsworth Investments
Cris Collinsworth’s investment portfolio is centered around Pro Football Focus (PFF). The 2021 sale of a minority stake to Silver Lake Partners boosted the company’s value and solidified Collinsworth’s reputation as a savvy businessman. With PFF’s advanced statistics now widely used by NFL teams, Collinsworth’s influence extends beyond broadcasting.
Cris Collinsworth House
Cris Collinsworth and his wife, Holly Collinsworth, live in Fort Thomas, Kentucky. Their home, which sits on a 5-acre property, is valued at around $2 million. The 7,000-square-foot house features amenities such as a pool and a pool house, reflecting the comfortable lifestyle his successful career has provided.
Cris Collinsworth Charity Work
Throughout his career, Cris Collinsworth has quietly contributed to various charitable causes. His work with the Proscan Fund, focusing on breast cancer education and support, and his involvement in programs for children show his commitment to giving back to the community.
Cris Collinsworth Awards and Achievements
Cris Collinsworth has earned numerous accolades throughout his career. As a player, he was a three-time Pro Bowler, and as a broadcaster, he has won 17 Sports Emmy Awards. His role as the lead analyst for Sunday Night Football has made him a household name in the world of sports commentary.
FAQs
1. Does Cris Collinsworth’s wife have cancer?
No, there is no public information suggesting that Cris Collinsworth’s wife, Holly Collinsworth, has cancer. Any rumors regarding this are unverified. Holly has been a supportive partner to Cris throughout his career, and the couple lives in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, with their children.
2. What is Cris Collinsworth’s salary?
As of 2024, Cris Collinsworth’s salary is reported to be $12.5 million per year. This figure comes from his work as the lead NFL analyst for NBC Sports, where he has been a prominent voice on Sunday Night Football for many years. His salary increased significantly after signing a new contract extension in December 2021.
3. Where does Cris Collinsworth live?
Cris Collinsworth’s house is located in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where he and his wife, Holly Collinsworth, have a sprawling 7,000-square-foot home on a 5-acre property. They purchased the land for $100,000 in 2000 and built a luxurious residence that includes a barn, pool, and pool house. Similar properties in the area have sold for around $2 million.
4. How old is Cris Collinsworth?
Cris Collinsworth was born on January 27, 1959, which makes him 65 years old as of 2024.
5. Why did Cris Collinsworth retire?
Cris Collinsworth retired from the NFL after the 1988 season due to a series of injuries. His retirement was influenced by both physical limitations and the desire to transition to a new career. After his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, he shifted to broadcasting, where he found significant success.
conclusion
Cris Collinsworth’s journey from a talented NFL wide receiver to a successful sports broadcaster and entrepreneur is nothing short of impressive. With a net worth of $25 million in 2024, his career is a testament to hard work, dedication, and adaptability. After retiring from the NFL, Collinsworth seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a household name as the lead analyst for NBC’s Sunday Night Football. His financial success also extends beyond the broadcast booth, with investments in Pro Football Focus (PFF), a cutting-edge sports analytics company, and notable endorsement deals, contributing to his wealth.
Despite facing occasional public criticism for his commentary style, Collinsworth has built a legacy that extends well beyond football. His role as a sports commentator, NFL analyst, and entrepreneur showcases his influence in both sports media and business. His personal life, including his marriage to Holly Collinsworth and their residence in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, paints a picture of a man who balances his professional success with a grounded, family-oriented life. As he continues to shape the world of sports broadcasting, Cris Collinsworth’s impact remains strong, and his legacy is set to grow even further in the years ahead.
Bio Writings, founded by Oscar Wyatt, is a blog dedicated to helping readers craft compelling, personalized biographies. Whether you need a professional bio, personal story, or creative writing tips, Oscar’s engaging content helps you showcase your unique journey with style and clarity.
