Matt Prater Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Legacy of the NFL Kicker
Introduction
Matt Prater is an American football player who has made a name for himself in the National Football League (NFL). He is widely regarded as one of the best kickers of his era and has earned numerous accolades for his contributions to the sport. With a career spanning over a decade, Prater has amassed an impressive net worth that puts him among the wealthiest athletes in the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at Matt Prater’s net worth, career, personal life, real estate holdings, and legacy. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about this NFL star.
What is Matt Prater’s Net Worth and Salary?
As of 2021, Matt Prater’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. This figure is derived from his career earnings from the NFL, endorsements, and investments. In 2020, he signed a two-year $6.5 million contract with the Detroit Lions. His annual salary is estimated to be around $3.25 million. Prater has also earned money from endorsement deals with brands such as Pepsi and Nike.
Early Life and Education
Matt Prater was born on August 10, 1984, in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. He grew up in Central Florida and attended Estero High School in Estero, Florida. While in high school, Prater played football, soccer, and baseball. He was a standout kicker in his senior year, earning All-State honors and receiving a scholarship to the University of Central Florida.
Career
After college, Matt Prater went undrafted in the 2006 NFL draft, but he was signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent. He played with the team for a year before being cut. Prater then signed with the Miami Dolphins, but he never played a regular-season game with the team. He then signed with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played for two seasons.
Prater made a name for himself when he signed with the Denver Broncos in 2007. During his tenure with the team, he broke several records and helped the Broncos reach the Super Bowl in 2013. In the 2013 playoffs, he kicked a 64-yard field goal, which is the longest in NFL history.
Prater was released by the Broncos in 2014 due to a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He signed with the Detroit Lions in October 2014 and has been with the team ever since.
Personal Life
Matt Prater is married to Kati Prater, and together they have three children. He has been open about his battle with alcoholism and has spoken on several occasions about the role that his family and faith have played in his recovery process.
Real Estate
Matt Prater is known to be a savvy investor and has several real estate holdings. He owns a few properties in Florida and is rumored to have invested in several commercial real estate ventures. With his net worth, Prater has also made several charitable donations to organizations that help those suffering from addiction.
Legacy
Matt Prater’s legacy will no doubt be remembered for his consistent performances on the field. He is widely regarded as one of the best kickers of his generation and has played an instrumental role in helping several teams win big games. Off the field, he has been an inspiration to many for his honesty and transparency about his struggles with addiction. He has turned his life around and is now using his platform to help others.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Matt Prater’s greatest achievement in the NFL?
Matt Prater’s longest field goal of 64 yards, which he kicked in the 2013 playoffs, is his greatest achievement. It is the longest field goal in NFL history.
2. How many teams has Matt Prater played for in the NFL?
Matt Prater has played for four teams in the NFL: the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, Atlanta Falcons, and Miami Dolphins.
3. Has Matt Prater ever won any awards?
Matt Prater has won several awards during his career, including the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week (six times), the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week (one time), and the Ed Block Courage Award.
4. Is Matt Prater still playing in the NFL?
Yes, Matt Prater is currently playing for the Detroit Lions and is under contract until 2022.
5. What is the most money Matt Prater has earned in a season?
Matt Prater’s most lucrative season came in 2019 when he signed a three-year $11.4 million contract with the Detroit Lions.
6. Is Matt Prater involved in any charitable organizations?
Matt Prater has supported several charitable organizations, including Phoenix House, which is a substance abuse treatment center.
7. Has Matt Prater ever kicked a game-winning field goal?
Yes, Matt Prater has kicked several game-winning field goals throughout his career.
8. What other interests does Matt Prater have outside of football?
Matt Prater is known to be an avid golfer and has participated in several charity golf tournaments over the years.
9. Has Matt Prater ever been injured while playing in the NFL?
Matt Prater has suffered several injuries throughout his career, including a groin injury and a concussion.
10. How tall is Matt Prater?
Matt Prater is 5 feet 10 inches tall.
11. Where can I follow Matt Prater on social media?
Matt Prater is active on social media and can be followed on Instagram and Twitter.
12. What advice does Matt Prater have for aspiring young football players?
Matt Prater has advised young football players to work hard, stay focused, and never give up on their dreams.
13. Does Matt Prater have any plans to retire from the NFL?
There have been no indications that Matt Prater plans to retire from the NFL anytime soon.
14. How does Matt Prater deal with nervousness before a big game?
Matt Prater has said that he deals with nervousness by staying calm and focused. He also relies on his experience to help him stay in the right mindset.
15. Is Matt Prater considered one of the best kickers of all time?
Matt Prater is considered one of the best kickers of his generation and is widely regarded as one of the most consistent performers in the NFL. While his legacy is yet to be fully determined, his achievements on the field have earned him a place among the all-time greats.