Lamar Demeatrice Jackson Jr. was born on January 7, 1997, in Pompano Beach, Florida. Raised in a close-knit family, Jackson’s love for football was apparent from a young age.
He attended Boynton Beach High School, where he played quarterback and quickly made a name for himself.
His impressive high school performances led him to be a four-star recruit, attracting the attention of colleges nationwide.
College Career and Heisman Trophy Victory
After high school, Jackson chose to play college football at the University of Louisville, where he played for the Louisville Cardinals from 2015 to 2017.
During his time at Louisville, Jackson became one of college football’s most dynamic quarterbacks. He set numerous records and won several awards, but his crowning achievement came in 2016 when he won the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
At just 19 years old, Jackson became the youngest player to ever win the award, solidifying his status as one of college football’s brightest stars.
Entering the NFL: Draft and Early Career
In the 2018 NFL Draft, Jackson was selected by the Baltimore Ravens as the 32nd overall pick in the first round. The Ravens saw in him the potential to revolutionize the quarterback position with his unique combination of athleticism and passing ability.
Jackson made his NFL debut in Week 1 of the 2018 season against the Buffalo Bills. In his rookie year, he helped lead the Ravens to the playoffs, showcasing his dual-threat abilities and making a significant impact on the field.
Rise to NFL Stardom: MVP Seasons and Pro Bowls
Jackson’s meteoric rise continued in 2019 when he was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) after leading the Ravens to a league-best 14-2 record.
His extraordinary ability to both pass and run set him apart from other quarterbacks, and his 1,206 rushing yards that season broke the NFL record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single season.
His ability to escape defenders and create plays on the fly made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.
Jackson’s success didn’t stop there. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times and, in 2023, earned his second MVP award.
His incredible performances have led the Ravens to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons in the league.
The $260 Million Contract: A Landmark Deal
In 2023, Lamar Jackson signed a massive five-year contract worth $260 million with the Baltimore Ravens, making him one of the highest-paid players in the NFL.
This contract solidified his place as one of the premier quarterbacks in the league and allowed him to continue building on his already impressive career.
The deal reflects both his on-field success and the Ravens’ commitment to him as the future of the franchise.
Net Worth
As of now, Lamar Jackson’s net worth is estimated at $100.5 million, according to Forbes. This includes his salary, endorsement deals, investments, and other business ventures.
With his continued success on the field and his growing off-field ventures, his financial status is set to continue rising.
Career Earnings and Salary
According to a source, Jackson has accumulated around $144.5 million in career earnings as of late 2024. His salary, which is around $52 million annually, is largely due to his record-breaking contract with the Ravens.
This impressive salary makes him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, solidifying his place among NFL elites.
Endorsements and Business Ventures
In addition to his playing salary, Jackson has lucrative endorsement deals with various companies. Some of his notable endorsements include:
- Oakley Inc.: A company known for its football helmets and sunglasses, which has tapped into Jackson’s star power.
- NFL Pro Era: A virtual reality football game endorsed by Jackson, showcasing his crossover into tech.
- Play Action Soulfood and More: A soul food restaurant chain Jackson is involved with, originally called Tasty’s
- Soul Food Sports Bar and Grill
- . The partnership rebranded the restaurant with the tagline “You 8 yet?”
In addition to these deals, Jackson has appeared in commercials for several other brands, including Pizza Hut, and he was even featured on the cover of the popular video game Madden NFL 2021. Through these endorsements, Jackson has made approximately $2 million, according to Forbes.
Lamar Jackson’s Investments and Business Interests
Lamar Jackson’s wealth isn’t limited to endorsements and salaries. He has also expanded his financial portfolio with several smart investments. Jackson has ventured into the restaurant industry with Play Action Soulfood and More, where he continues to promote and invest in the growth of the business.
Additionally, Jackson owns his own clothing line called Era 8 Apparel, which reflects his personal style and brand.
Jackson’s investments show his savvy business sense, extending his influence beyond the football field.
His entrepreneurial spirit positions him as a role model for athletes looking to diversify their income streams.
Lamar Jackson’s Lifestyle
House and Real Estate
Jackson resides in a luxurious mansion in Owings Mills, Maryland, which is valued at approximately $1.3 million.
The home serves as his primary residence and also houses his mother and brother, emphasizing Jackson’s strong family ties. The mansion offers plenty of space and comfort, fitting for a superstar of Jackson’s caliber.
Cars and Luxury Lifestyle
Like many NFL stars, Jackson enjoys a lavish lifestyle, which includes a collection of luxury cars. Notably, Jackson owns a Rolls Royce Wraith worth nearly $350,000 and a Mercedes Benz SL500 valued at around $300,000.
These cars reflect his success and provide him with the high-end lifestyle that comes with being one of the top athletes in the world.
Lamar Jackson’s Charity Work and Philanthropy
Lamar Jackson’s generosity extends well beyond his personal wealth. In 2018, he established The Forever Dreamers Foundation, an organization that focuses on mental health awareness, especially for underprivileged youth.
The foundation works to inspire young people to pursue their dreams while also addressing the importance of mental well-being.
Additionally, Jackson supports Blessings in a Backpack, a nonprofit organization based in Louisville, Kentucky.
This charity provides food to children who might otherwise go without meals during the weekends. Jackson’s philanthropic efforts showcase his commitment to giving back to the community and helping those in need.
