Fran Tarkenton Net Worth NFL Legend, Career, And Business
Fran Tarkenton is a name that stands out in both sports and business. Known as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, he built his reputation with the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants. After retiring, he proved his talent went far beyond football by becoming a successful entrepreneur and media personality.
Many fans today are curious about Fran Tarkenton net worth, which reflects not only his achievements on the field but also his smart decisions in business and life.
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What is Fran Tarkenton Net Worth?
Fran Tarkenton net worth is estimated to be around $300 million as of 2025. His fortune comes from three main sources: his long NFL career, broadcasting roles, and his successful ventures in business and entrepreneurship. While his football salary contributed in the early years, the majority of his wealth was built after retirement through smart investments and Tarkenton Companies, which provide services for small businesses.
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| Source of Wealth | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Career Earnings | Salaries and bonuses from 1961–1978 |
| Broadcasting & Media | Worked as commentator and TV personality |
| Business Ventures | Founder of Tarkenton Companies and other firms |
| Investments | Various financial and entrepreneurial investments |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $300 Million |
Who is Fran Tarkenton?
Fran Tarkenton is a former American football quarterback and businessman best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants. He is remembered as one of the NFL’s most innovative quarterbacks, famous for his scrambling ability and ability to extend plays. Beyond football, Tarkenton built a successful career in broadcasting, business, and entrepreneurship.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Francis Asbury Tarkenton |
| Known As | Fran Tarkenton |
| Date of Birth | February 3, 1940 |
| Age (2025) | 85 Years Old |
| Birthplace | Richmond, Virginia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former NFL Quarterback, Entrepreneur, Broadcaster |
| Height | 6 ft (183 cm) |
| Weight (Playing Days) | 190 lbs (86 kg) |
| Education | University of Georgia |
| NFL Teams | Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants |
| Years Active (NFL) | 1961–1978 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $300 Million |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | Yes |
| Notable Business | Tarkenton Companies |
Early Life
Fran Tarkenton was born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia. He grew up in Athens, Georgia, where his love for football began at an early age. Raised in a supportive family, he quickly developed a competitive spirit and a strong work ethic. His early passion for sports set the foundation for his professional journey and later influenced the growth of Fran Tarkenton net worth.
Education
Tarkenton attended Athens High School, where he became a standout quarterback. His performance earned him recognition and a scholarship to the University of Georgia. At Georgia, he became one of the most talented players in college football, leading the Bulldogs to major victories.
His time at Georgia not only shaped his skills as an athlete but also provided him with the discipline and knowledge that he later applied to his business career. Education played a key role in his success, contributing indirectly to Fran Tarkenton net worth over the years.
Relationships
Fran Tarkenton has been married multiple times throughout his life. He first married his high school sweetheart, but the relationship ended in divorce. Later, he remarried and built a stable family life. His personal relationships reflect the balance he has sought between career demands and family priorities.
Despite challenges, his focus on personal growth and stability helped him succeed in business and maintain a positive public image. This balance also supported the long-term growth of Fran Tarkenton net worth.
Career
Tarkenton’s professional career began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1961. Known for his mobility and creativity on the field, he quickly earned a reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks. After spending six seasons with the Vikings, he was traded to the New York Giants, where he played from 1967 to 1971. He later returned to the Vikings, leading them to three Super Bowl appearances.
Tarkenton retired in 1978 as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards, completions, and touchdowns, records that stood for years. His football career played a huge part in building Fran Tarkenton net worth, but his ventures outside the sport also made him financially successful.
After retiring, he became a commentator on Monday Night Football, co-hosted television programs, and later founded several successful businesses. His company, Tarkenton Companies, specialized in providing small business consulting and financial services. Through smart investments and entrepreneurship, Tarkenton ensured that Fran Tarkenton net worth continued to grow long after his playing days ended.
Family
Family has always been important to Fran Tarkenton. He is a father and grandfather, often crediting his family as a source of inspiration and strength. His children and grandchildren have pursued their own paths, but Tarkenton’s influence as a leader and role model has shaped their lives. His commitment to family values has helped him stay grounded despite fame and wealth. This sense of balance is one reason why Fran Tarkenton net worth remains tied not just to money, but also to legacy.
Social Links
Fran Tarkenton maintains a presence online through his company websites and occasional interviews. While he is not as active on social media as younger athletes, his professional network is strong. He often shares insights about business, leadership, and football through articles and guest appearances. Fans interested in learning about his ventures can find his work connected to Tarkenton Companies and related projects.
Physical Appearance
During his playing days, Fran Tarkenton stood 6 feet tall and weighed around 190 pounds. He was not the biggest quarterback of his time, but his agility, quickness, and creativity made him stand out. Even now, as an older man, he maintains a sharp and energetic appearance, often speaking with enthusiasm and confidence. His physical presence during his career played a crucial role in his reputation, which ultimately influenced the growth of Fran Tarkenton net worth through recognition, endorsements, and opportunities.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft (183 cm) |
| Weight (Playing Days) | 190 lbs (86 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown (now gray with age) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Build | Athletic (during NFL career) |
| Distinctive Feature | Known for agility and scrambling ability |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fran Tarkenton net worth today?
Fran Tarkenton net worth is estimated to be around $300 million in 2025, earned through his NFL career, broadcasting, and successful business ventures.
Did Fran Tarkenton win a Super Bowl?
No, Fran Tarkenton never won a Super Bowl. However, he led the Minnesota Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances and is still considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
What does Fran Tarkenton do after retirement?
After retiring from football in 1978, Tarkenton worked as a broadcaster and built several successful businesses, including Tarkenton Companies, which focuses on small business consulting and financial services.
Conclusion
Fran Tarkenton’s journey from a young boy in Georgia to an NFL legend and successful businessman is remarkable. His achievements on the football field made him one of the sport’s greatest quarterbacks, while his ventures in business made him one of the wealthiest retired athletes. Today, Fran Tarkenton net worth is estimated at $300 million, a testament to his skill, vision, and perseverance.
