O.J. Simpson, a name forever etched in American history, is known for his accomplishments on the football field, his acting career, and, unfortunately, the infamous legal battles that have defined much of his life. Born on July 9, 1947, Simpson’s early years were marked by athletic success, but his later years have been overshadowed by legal and financial struggles. As of 2025, Simpson’s estimated net worth is around $3 million, a stark contrast to the millions he once had. To fully understand how Simpson’s wealth evolved, it’s essential to look at his career earnings, his financial rise, and subsequent falls, especially in light of his criminal trials and the significant financial consequences that followed.
O.J. Simpson’s Early Life and NFL Career
Orenthal James Simpson, better known as O.J., was born in San Francisco to Eunice, a hospital administrator, and Jimmy Lee Simpson, a chef. Raised in a turbulent household, Simpson’s childhood took a dramatic turn when he joined a street gang during his early teenage years. However, after a meeting with baseball star Willie Mays, Simpson decided to clean up his act. He went on to graduate from Galileo High School before securing a football scholarship at the University of Southern California (USC), where he won the Heisman Trophy as a senior in 1968.
In 1969, Simpson was drafted as the number-one overall pick by the Buffalo Bills, demanding the largest contract in professional sports at the time—$650,000 for five years. His NFL career spanned from 1969 to 1979, during which Simpson established himself as one of the league’s top running backs. His record-breaking season in 1973, where he rushed for over 2,000 yards, made him a household name and cemented his place in NFL history.
Despite his fame and earnings from football, Simpson also made money from endorsement deals, with his most lucrative being with rental car company Hertz. His commercials for the brand became iconic, and at the height of his career, he earned millions in endorsements. Simpson’s salary during his NFL career was substantial, earning him $733,668 in 1978, a figure that would be equivalent to approximately $3.5 million today. By the time he retired, Simpson had earned a significant income, but his wealth was just beginning to be overshadowed by his off-field troubles.
O.J. Simpson’s Net Worth at Its Peak
At the height of his career, O.J. Simpson’s net worth was estimated at around $10.8 million in 1992, a figure that would be equivalent to about $25 million today after adjusting for inflation. This wealth was primarily derived from his football career, acting roles, and endorsement deals. By 1992, Simpson’s monthly income was $55,000—equivalent to about $125,000 today—largely thanks to his lucrative Hertz endorsement deal.
However, despite these financial successes, Simpson’s personal life was unraveling. His divorce from Nicole Brown Simpson in 1992 resulted in a costly settlement, including monthly child support payments and a one-time lump sum. These financial obligations, combined with his extravagant lifestyle, began to deplete his wealth.
The Trial of the Century: O.J. Simpson’s Criminal and Civil Battles
In 1994, Simpson became the focal point of one of the most publicized criminal trials in American history when he was charged with the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. Simpson’s infamous low-speed chase in the white Ford Bronco and his subsequent criminal trial captivated the nation. In 1995, Simpson was acquitted of all criminal charges, but the damage to his financial and personal life was already done.
While Simpson avoided criminal conviction, he faced a civil trial, where he was found liable for the wrongful deaths of Brown and Goldman. In 1997, Simpson was ordered to pay the Goldman family $33.5 million in damages, a figure that has grown to nearly $100 million today due to interest. Unfortunately, Simpson was unable to pay the judgment, and his financial struggles intensified. Despite making some payments, including around $500,000 from the sale of personal items, Simpson still owed a substantial amount.
Financial Downfall and Bankruptcy
After his acquittal in 1995, Simpson’s financial troubles deepened. His Brentwood estate, valued at around $10 million at the time, was foreclosed upon in 1997 when Simpson failed to make mortgage payments. The home was later sold at auction, and Simpson’s subsequent move to Florida allowed him to declare bankruptcy in a state where his primary home was protected from legal seizure. This marked the beginning of a long period of financial instability for Simpson.
In the years that followed, Simpson’s assets were further drained by legal fees, child support payments, and various settlements. Although Simpson continued to receive income from his NFL pension, which was estimated to be worth around $5 million, his wealth had already been significantly reduced.
O.J. Simpson’s Pension and Legal Protection
Despite his financial downfall, Simpson’s NFL pension remained a key source of income. The pension, protected by state law from legal claims, continued to provide him with an annual income of around $400,000. This income, combined with other small pensions from acting roles, kept Simpson financially afloat. However, all earnings outside of his pensions were directed toward settling the Goldman family’s civil judgment.
Simpson’s financial troubles continued as rumors swirled about hidden assets, including possible offshore accounts. However, no substantial evidence of hidden wealth was ever confirmed, and Simpson’s financial situation remained precarious.
Final Years and Death
In 2007, Simpson was involved in a robbery and kidnapping incident in Las Vegas, which led to his conviction and imprisonment. After serving a prison sentence, Simpson was released in 2017. Despite his efforts to rebuild his life, including attempts at securing income through public appearances and endorsements, Simpson’s financial legacy was irrevocably tarnished.
O.J. Simpson passed away on April 10, 2024, at the age of 76 after a battle with cancer. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated at approximately $3 million, a far cry from the millions he once had. His life and legacy remain deeply intertwined with the legal controversies and financial struggles that followed him throughout his later years.