About to run into a bunch of money? … Follow Gronk’s route.
For a lot of players in the NFL, it’s not hard to go a little too far when it comes to money and fame, especially the former. and especially when you’re a rookie and brand new to that kind of cash. I’ve never been rich, but I can imagine it as a wild ride.
Not for New England Patriots icon Rob Gronkowski, however. A lot of people might think he’s dumb, but he’s actually quite smart with his money. According to the man himself, back in 2010 during his rookie season, he was very conservative with it.
Talking with Forbes in a recent interview, it was revealed by the future Hall of Famer that he was living off the $50,000 advance that was provided to him by his agent, and that he took advantage of all of the free perks that you get as a player in the National Football League. (RELATED: Russell Wilson Announces Retirement From NFL, Joining CBS Sports)
“I was able to purchase my first car, which was a 2008 Escalade, and then to be able to pay rent once I got to New England. And then from there on out, I really didn’t need any other money,” said Gronkowski. “I was getting free meals at the facility. I just kind of needed gas money. You go out, the drinks are free or you pay for one, you get 10 free when you’re when you’re on the Patriots up in the Boston area.”
Gronk lived a low-key life and also had a roommate that assisted him with saving money, and when you truly realize how short of a career that NFL players have, that’s quite crucial.
“I just lived off my marketing dollars. I was living a low-level life. I had a condo with a roommate that was on the team as well. We’re paying $1,500 a month in rent while in the NFL,” added Gronkowski. “I was very frugal and that’s how I got away with it. Not having any lavish purchases, the first couple years in the league and just banking away what I was making because I truly understood that the NFL stands for not for long.”
Ultimately, Gronk played 10 campaigns in the NFL and made tens of millions of dollars. With that being said, he didn’t touch his salary much when he played, living mainly off of money from endorsements.
WATCH:
This is exactly my strategy when my investments go parabolic … be as conservative with the money as possible and grow the wealth.