Fran Tarkenton net worth in 2025 stands at an impressive $300 million, built through football success, television appearances, and groundbreaking software ventures. Known as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history, Tarkenton’s post-retirement achievements in business made him one of the wealthiest former athletes in America.
Who is Fran Tarkenton?
Fran Tarkenton is an American former professional football quarterback, television personality, and entrepreneur. He gained fame as the first great dual-threat quarterback in the NFL, combining passing skill with scrambling ability. His 18-season career with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants made him a football icon. After his retirement, he turned his leadership on the field into business leadership, becoming a tech innovator in the early age of computer software.
Early Life
Born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, Fran grew up in Athens, Georgia, where his father served as a Methodist minister. His early years were shaped by discipline and a love for football. At Clarke Central High School, Tarkenton showed early promise as a quarterback, earning him a spot at the University of Georgia.
At Georgia, he became a standout player for the Bulldogs, leading them to the 1959 Southeastern Conference Championship. His creativity, quick decision-making, and mobility made him a unique quarterback prospect.
| Section | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Francis Asbury Tarkenton |
| Born | February 3, 1940 – Richmond, Virginia |
| Profession | Former NFL QB, Entrepreneur, TV Host |
| NFL Teams | Vikings, Giants |
| Net Worth 2025 | $300 Million |
| Main Income | Software, Business, Investments |
| Marital Status | Married to Linda Sebastian |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
Education
Fran Tarkenton attended the University of Georgia from 1958 to 1960, where he studied business and played under coach Wally Butts. He was named First-Team All-SEC in both 1959 and 1960. His time at Georgia set the foundation for his professional career and future ventures as a businessman.
Read more: Damian lewis net worth
Fran Tarkenton Net Worth (2025)
The estimated fran tarkenton net worth is $300 million in 2025. This massive figure comes from his multi-faceted career — from being one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history to becoming a self-made entrepreneur in the software and financial industries.
Financial Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2025) | $300 Million |
| Primary Income Sources | NFL Career, Software Business, Financial Services, TV Appearances |
| Peak NFL Salary | $250,000 per season |
| Post-NFL Business Income | Over $100 million in software ventures |
| Investments | Real estate, Apple stock, and small business startups |
Tarkenton’s wealth growth accelerated after his retirement, with investments in technology and entrepreneurship making him one of the richest former athletes in America.
Fran Tarkenton Career
Fran Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 1961 NFL Draft. His first game made history — he came off the bench and threw four touchdown passes, an NFL debut record that stood for decades.
He played for the Vikings (1961–1966), then moved to the New York Giants (1967–1971) before returning to Minnesota from 1972–1978. His return to the Vikings marked the team’s best years, leading them to three Super Bowl appearances (1973, 1974, 1976).
During his career, Tarkenton earned nine Pro Bowl selections, the NFL MVP award in 1975, and held every major quarterback record at the time of his retirement — including passing yards (47,003) and touchdowns (342).
Career Achievements Table
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| NFL MVP | 1975 |
| NFL Offensive Player of the Year | 1975 |
| 9× Pro Bowl Selections | 1964–1976 |
| Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame | 1986 |
| College Football Hall of Fame | 1987 |
| Georgia Sports Hall of Fame | 1977 |
Tarkenton retired in 1978 as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. He remains celebrated as the man who pioneered the modern mobile quarterback style seen in stars like Patrick Mahomes and Russell Wilson.
Career Earnings
At the start of his NFL career, Tarkenton earned $12,500 per season, which was roughly $111,000 today. His salary peaked at $250,000 in the late 1970s. Overall, his total career NFL earnings reached approximately $1.2 million — equivalent to $8 million in today’s value.
After football, he leveraged his fame and intellect to build companies that generated far greater returns.
Business Career
After retirement, Tarkenton entered the business world with the same energy he had on the field.
1. Tarkenton Software
He founded Tarkenton Software, which developed tools for computer-aided software engineering (CASE). This venture later merged with KnowledgeWare, where he served as president.
2. KnowledgeWare Success
When KnowledgeWare went public in 1989, Tarkenton’s net worth soared. In 1994, the company was sold to Sterling Software for $73 million, earning him $6 million directly and a five-year board seat with a $300,000 annual salary.
3. GoSmallBiz and Tarkenton Financial
Tarkenton also launched GoSmallBiz, a platform supporting entrepreneurs, and Tarkenton Financial, a retirement and financial planning firm. Both companies continue to operate successfully today.
Read more: Andy elliott net worth
Relationship and Family
Fran Tarkenton has been married twice. His first marriage was to Anna Elaine Merrell in 1960, with whom he had three children: Angela, Matthew, and Melissa. They divorced in 1982. Later, he married Linda Sebastian, and they share a daughter, Hayley Gray Tarkenton, who is a singer-songwriter.
He values family privacy but often credits them for his emotional stability and lifelong motivation.
Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 190 lbs (86 kg) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Build | Athletic even post-retirement |
Even at 85 years old, Tarkenton maintains a healthy and active lifestyle, often seen speaking at business events and sports ceremonies.
Social Links
Although not highly active on modern platforms, Fran Tarkenton’s companies maintain digital presences:
- GoSmallBiz.com – business and entrepreneurial support
- Tarkenton Financial – financial and retirement services
He also occasionally shares thoughts on leadership and motivation through interviews and podcasts.
Legacy and Influence
Fran Tarkenton is often called “The Scrambler”, a nickname earned for his unmatched agility and improvisational play. His football career broke barriers, and his post-football journey proved that athletes can thrive as entrepreneurs.
He inspired generations of quarterbacks and athletes to think beyond sports — showing that hard work and innovation can lead to lifelong success.
In addition to his Hall of Fame status, Tarkenton’s name is engraved in both sports and business history, making him one of the rare figures to excel equally in two completely different worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fran Tarkenton net worth in 2025?
Fran Tarkenton net worth is estimated at $300 million in 2025, earned from football, software, and financial ventures.
How did Fran Tarkenton make his money?
He made his wealth through his NFL career, software companies like Tarkenton Software and KnowledgeWare, and investments in tech and finance.
What is Fran Tarkenton doing now?
He currently manages Tarkenton Financial and GoSmallBiz, helping entrepreneurs and retirees. He also makes public appearances and motivational speeches.
Is Fran Tarkenton still alive in 2025?
Yes, Fran Tarkenton is alive and healthy at 85 years old, residing in the United States and continuing his business work.
Conclusion
The story of fran tarkenton net worth is a story of talent, intelligence, and resilience. From throwing touchdowns to building tech companies, he embodies the American spirit of hard work and reinvention. His journey shows that true success isn’t just about fame — it’s about creating value, leading with purpose, and continuing to grow at every stage of life.
