Manti Te’o a former professional American football player, is known for his impressive college career at Notre Dame, his stint in the N.F.L., and his involvement in a highly publicized catfishing scandal. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, Te’o has built a solid financial foundation. In this article, we will delve deep into Manti Te’o’s net worth, examining how he accumulated his wealth, his career highs and lows, and his investments beyond football.
Manti Te’o biography:
| Full Name | Manti Malietau Louis Te’o |
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Laie, Hawaii, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| High School | Punahou School, Honolulu, Hawaii |
| College | University of Notre Dame |
| Position | Linebacker |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Weight | 241 lbs (109 kg) |
| NFL Draft | 2013, 2nd Round, 38th overall pick (San Diego Chargers) |
| NFL Teams | San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears |
| Career Highlights | Maxwell Award, Chuck Bednarik Award, Butkus Award, Lombardi Award, Walter Camp Award |
| Total NFL Career Earnings | $10.4 million |
| Net Worth (2024) | $3.5 million |
| Marital Status | Married to Jovi Nicole Engbino |
| Children | Hiro Te’o (daughter), Kyro Aumua Te’o (son) |
| Notable Scandal | Catfishing incident involving fake girlfriend Lennay Kekua |
| Documentary | “Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist” (Netflix) |
| Current Focus | Family life, mental health advocacy, business ventures |
Early Life and Rise to Stardom at Notre Dame
Born on January 26, 1991, in Laie, Hawaii, Manti Malietau Louis Te’o began his journey in football during his high school years. His dedication to the sport quickly garnered attention as he became one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation. Te’o’s stellar performance at Punahou School in Honolulu earned him several honors, including the Gatorade State Player of the Year award in his junior and senior years.
Te’o’s decision to join Notre Dame solidified his reputation as a powerhouse linebacker. His college career was spectacular, amassing 437 tackles and earning prestigious accolades such as the Maxwell Award, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Butkus Award. He was also a Heisman Trophy finalist, a rare achievement for a defensive player. This strong start set the stage for what was expected to be a lucrative N.F.L. career.
NFL Career and Earnings
Despite his college success, Manti Te’o’s transition to the N.F.L. wasn’t as smooth as expected. The infamous catfishing incident, which we will discuss later, overshadowed his draft prospects. Initially projected as a first-round pick, Te’o was ultimately selected in the second round of the 2013 N.F.L. Draft by the San Diego Chargers as the 38th overall pick.
Te’o’s rookie contract with the Chargers was valued at $5.172 million over four years, including a $2.14 million signing bonus. However, his N.F.L. career was plagued by injuries that limited his performance. In his first season, Te’o missed several games due to a foot injury but still finished with 61 tackles.
In 2017, Te’o signed a two-year deal worth $5 million with the New Orleans Saints, making it his most financially rewarding contract. His time with the Saints was marked by highs and lows, including leading the team in tackles for loss in his first season. Unfortunately, injuries once again limited his playing time in subsequent seasons.
After a brief stint with the Chicago Bears in 2020, where he was mainly on the practice squad, Te’o’s N.F.L. career effectively ended. Over his N.F.L. tenure, Te’o earned a total of $10.4 million in salary, with his highest-paid season being 2017, when he earned $1.7 million.
The Catfishing Scandal: Impact on Career and Earnings
One of the most defining moments of Manti Te’o’s life was the catfishing scandal that broke out in 2013. While Te’o was a star player at Notre Dame, he believed he was in a long-distance relationship with a woman named Lennay Kekua, whom he had met online. Te’o was told that Kekua had been involved in a car accident and was later diagnosed with leukemia, ultimately passing away. The emotional weight of her supposed death, coupled with the passing of Te’o’s grandmother, made headlines across the nation.
However, as it turned out, Lennay Kekua never existed. The person behind the online identity was Ronaiah Tuiasosopo, a man who had created the fake profile. The revelation sent shockwaves through the sports world, with many questioning whether Te’o was complicit in the hoax. Te’o maintained his innocence, stating that he was a scam victim.
The scandal significantly impacted Te’o’s draft stock. Once considered a first-round lock, the controversy caused his stock to plummet, ultimately costing him millions of dollars. Had he been drafted in the first round, Te’o’s rookie contract could have been worth up to $20 million, with a substantial signing bonus. Instead, his second-round contract with the Chargers was valued at $5.172 million, a significant drop from what could have been.
Career Earnings Breakdown
Throughout his NFL career, Manti Te’o earned over $10 million. Here is a breakdown of his notable earnings:
- San Diego Chargers (2013-2016): Te’o earned $5.172 million over four years, with a $2.14 million signing bonus.
- New Orleans Saints (2017-2019): Te’o two-year contract was worth $5 million, with his highest-earning season being 2017, when he made $1.7 million.
- Chicago Bears (2020-2021): During his time on the Bears’ practice squad, Te’o earned $132,000.
While these figures represent his earnings from football, Te’o financial journey doesn’t end there. He has diversified his income streams through endorsements and investments, helping him build a stable financial future.
Endorsements and Investments
Like many professional athletes, Manti Te’o has capitalized on endorsement deals. One of his most notable endorsements was with Nike, a leading sports apparel brand. Although his endorsement earnings weren’t as substantial as those of top-tier N.F.L. players, they contributed to his overall net worth.
In addition to endorsements, Te’o has made several intelligent investments. He has a portfolio that includes investments in tech startups, real estate, and the stock market. Among his tech investments are companies like GrubMarket, a food delivery app, and Jaunt, a virtual reality company. These ventures have the potential to significantly increase his net worth over time, especially if these startups achieve significant success.
Te’o has also invested in real estate and owns properties in San Diego and Hawaii. These properties not only contribute to his net worth but also provide him with a steady stream of passive income.
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Manti Te’o Net Worth Breakdown: Earnings, Investments, and Financial Impact
This heading clearly signals a detailed overview of his financial journey, making the table a seamless addition to your article.
| Net Worth | $3.5 Million (as of 2024) |
| Highest-Earning Year | 2017 – Earned $1.7 Million from the New Orleans Saints |
| NFL Career Earnings | $10.4 Million |
| Major Contracts | – 2013: $5.172 Million (San Diego Chargers, 4 years)- 2017: $5 Million (New Orleans Saints, 2 years) |
| Signing Bonuses | $2.14 Million (San Diego Chargers) |
| Other Bonuses | $2.7 Million total in various signing, roster, and workout bonuses |
| Endorsement Deals | Estimated $150,000 from endorsements with companies like Nike and Subway |
| Investments | – Tech Startups (GrubMarket, Jaunt)- Real Estate (Properties in Hawaii and San Diego) |
| Impact of Catfishing Scandal | Estimated loss of up to $8 Million in potential rookie contract earnings |
| Post-NFL Income Sources | Real estate, tech investments, endorsements, and mental health advocacy work |
Manti Te’o’s Net Worth: How It Stands Today
As of 2024, Manti Te’o’s net worth is around $3.5 million. While this figure may seem modest compared to some other N.F.L. players, it’s important to remember the setbacks Te’o faced throughout his career. The catfishing scandal, coupled with injuries, undoubtedly impacted his earning potential.
However, Te’o intelligent financial decisions, including his investments and real estate holdings, have ensured that he remains financially secure even after his football career has ended. His willingness to move beyond the controversies and focus on his future has allowed him to maintain a stable net worth.
Post-NFL Life and Personal Growth
Since his NFL career ended, Manti Te’o has shifted his focus toward personal growth and family life. In 2020, Te’o married his longtime girlfriend, Jovi Nicole Engbino, a fitness instructor and beauty consultant. The couple has two children, a daughter named Hiro and a son named Kyro.
Te’o has also become an advocate for mental health awareness, using his experiences to help others navigate complex challenges. In 2022, he appeared in the Netflix documentary “Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist,” where he shared his side of the story regarding the catfishing scandal. His vulnerability and openness in the documentary were praised, with many people offering support and sympathy for what he endured.
In addition to his work in mental health advocacy, Te’o has continued to explore business opportunities, including partnerships with health and wellness brands.
The Legacy of Manti Te’o
Manti Te’o story is one of perseverance and resilience. Despite the challenges he faced, both personally and professionally, Te’o has managed to build a successful life for himself. His net worth of $3.5 million is a testament to his ability to overcome adversity and make the most of his opportunities.
While he may not have reached the financial heights some expected, Te’o’s legacy extends beyond his earnings. He has become a symbol of strength, showing that even in the face of public scrutiny and personal hardship, it’s possible to rise above and succeed.
Conclusion: Manti Te’o’s Net Worth and Financial Journey
Manti Te’o net worth of $3.5 million reflects his journey as an N.F.L. player, investor, and survivor of one of the most notorious hoaxes in sports history. Through his career earnings, endorsements, and intelligent investments in tech startups and real estate, Te’o has built a solid financial foundation that will continue to support him and his family for years.
The lessons learned from his catfishing ordeal have shaped Te’o into a person who prioritizes what truly matters—family, mental health, and personal growth. His story serves as an inspiration to others facing challenges, proving that with resilience and determination, success is still within reach.
As we look forward, it’s clear that Manti Te’o’s legacy will continue to evolve, both as a former N.F.L. player and as an advocate for personal well-being.
FAQs:
Q: What is Manti Te’o’s net worth in 2024?
A: Manti Te’o’s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be $3.5 million.
Q: Which NFL teams did Manti Te’o play for?
A: Manti Te’o played for the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears.
Q: What was the catfishing scandal involving Manti Te’o?
A: Manti Te’o was the victim of a catfishing hoax where he believed he was in a relationship with a woman who didn’t exist.
Q: What awards did Manti Te’o win in college?
A: Manti Te’o won several awards, including the Maxwell Award, Chuck Bednarik Award, Butkus Award, and Lombardi Award.
Q: Is Manti Te’o married?
A: Yes, Manti Te’o is married to Jovi Nicole Engbino, and they have two children together.
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