Rod Gardner is best known for his time in the National Football League, where his size, strength, and reliability made him a recognizable wide receiver. While his football career brought him into the spotlight, Gardner’s life today extends well beyond the field. Since retiring from professional sports, he has focused on business ventures, fitness, and family life.
For readers curious about his financial standing, career earnings, personal life, and physical stats, this guide breaks down Rod Gardner’s net worth, salary history, age, wife, height, and weight in a clear and factual way.
Rod Gardner Bio:
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rod Gardner |
| Date of Birth | October 26, 1977 |
| Age | 48 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Jacksonville, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former NFL Player, Fitness Coach, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | NFL wide receiver, first-round draft pick |
| College | Clemson University |
| Degree | Sociology |
| Teams Played For | Washington, other NFL teams |
| Career Duration | 2001–2006 |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 219 lbs (99 kg) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Leticia Marie Gardner |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10 million |
Rod Gardner Net Worth
As of 2025, Rod Gardner’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. The foundation of his wealth comes from his NFL career, but his financial growth did not stop after retirement. Gardner has remained active in business, particularly in fitness coaching and real estate investing, which have significantly contributed to his current net worth.
Over the years, his financial position has steadily improved due to disciplined money management and diversified income streams.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Main Sources |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | $2.8 million | NFL contracts |
| 2018 | $3.6 million | NFL earnings, fitness business |
| 2025 | $10 million | Business ventures, investments |
Gardner’s long-term financial stability reflects smart planning rather than reliance solely on his playing career.
Salary and Career Earnings
Rod Gardner entered the NFL in 2001 as a first-round draft pick. He signed a five-year rookie contract valued at approximately $7.8 million, which included a signing bonus of about $3.3 million. With performance incentives, the deal had the potential to exceed $11 million.
Across his professional football career, Gardner earned an estimated $10.1 million in total NFL income. His earnings varied by season, depending on team contracts and incentives.
| Team | Years | Contract Value | Bonuses / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 2001–2004 | $7.78 million | $3.3 million signing bonus |
| Other teams | 2005–2006 | Approx. $2.3 million | Performance-based earnings |
These figures reflect only his football income. His post-NFL business activities have added substantially to his overall financial profile
Age and Early Life
Rod Gardner was born on October 26, 1977, making him 48 years old in 2025. He grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, where his athletic ability was evident from a young age. At Raines High School, Gardner excelled in both football and basketball and initially played quarterback.
His strong performances earned him regional recognition and interest from major college programs. He later attended Clemson University, where he transitioned to wide receiver and quickly became one of the program’s standout players. Gardner earned a degree in sociology while establishing himself as one of the top receivers in the ACC, paving the way for his NFL draft selection.
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Wife and Family
Rod Gardner is married to Leticia Marie Gardner, and the couple married in 2014. Together, they share a strong interest in fitness, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Leticia is also a fitness professional, and the two frequently collaborate on training programs and health-focused projects.
While they keep much of their personal life private, Rod and Leticia often highlight their shared commitment to healthy living and business development. Their partnership extends beyond marriage into their professional pursuits, particularly in the fitness industry.
Height and Weight
Gardner’s physical build played a major role in his success as a wide receiver.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 219 pounds (99 kg) |
His size allowed him to outmatch defenders, make contested catches, and remain a dependable target throughout his playing career.
Rod Gardner Career Highlights
Rod Gardner spent six seasons in the NFL as a wide receiver. Selected 15th overall in the 2001 NFL Draft, he began his professional career with Washington and later played for additional teams.
Career highlights include:
- Drafted in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft
- Played primarily with Washington from 2001 to 2004
- Finished his NFL career with 242 receptions, 3,165 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns
- First Clemson player to record a 1,000-yard receiving season
- Earned First-Team All-ACC and All-American honors in college
Gardner was known for his strength, dependable hands, and ability to perform in critical moments, especially during his early NFL seasons.
Business Ventures and Public Presence
After retiring from football, Gardner transitioned into business. Alongside his wife, he launched a fitness coaching brand focused on long-term health, strength training, and lifestyle improvement. Their services include online programs as well as in-person coaching.
In addition to fitness, Gardner has invested in real estate, purchasing and renovating properties as part of a broader investment strategy. This balanced approach reflects his focus on sustainable income and financial security rather than short-term gains.
FAQ’s
What is Rod Gardner’s net worth?
Rod Gardner’s net worth is estimated at around $10 million as of 2025, earned through NFL contracts, fitness businesses, and real estate investments.
How much did Rod Gardner earn in the NFL?
He earned approximately $10.1 million during his NFL career, including salary, bonuses, and incentives.
Who is Rod Gardner’s wife?
He is married to Leticia Marie Gardner, whom he wed in 2014.
How tall is Rod Gardner?
Rod Gardner is 6 feet 2 inches tall (1.88 meters).
How much does Rod Gardner weigh?
His playing weight was about 219 pounds (99 kilograms).
Which teams did Rod Gardner play for?
He played primarily for Washington and later spent time with other NFL teams before retiring.
What does Rod Gardner do now?
He runs a fitness coaching business with his wife and is active in real estate investing.
Conclusion
Rod Gardner’s journey reflects a successful transition from professional sports to life beyond the NFL. His years on the football field laid a strong financial foundation, but his continued growth through fitness coaching and real estate shows thoughtful planning and discipline. With an estimated net worth of $10 million, Gardner has proven that smart decisions after retirement are just as important as success during an athletic career.
Beyond finances, Gardner’s life today centers on health, family, and entrepreneurship. His partnership with his wife, Leticia, highlights a shared commitment to wellness and long-term goals. As a former NFL player turned business-focused individual, Rod Gardner’s story serves as an example of how athletes can build lasting stability and purpose after leaving professional sports.
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