Vance McDonald at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $10 Million
- Birthdate: June 13, 1990
- Birthplace: Winnie, Texas
- Profession: Former NFL Tight End
- Nationality: American
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What is Vance McDonald’s Net Worth?
Vance McDonald has a net worth of $10 million. He built this wealth primarily through his eight-season career as a tight end in the National Football League.
His financial success is anchored by his professional contracts. Throughout his time with the San Francisco 49ers and the Pittsburgh Steelers, McDonald earned a total of $28 million in career earnings. His financial foundation was established with his rookie contract after being drafted in 2013. This was significantly increased in 2016 when he signed a five-year, $35 million extension with the 49ers, a deal that included $16 million in guarantees.
Early Life
Vance McDonald was born in Winnie, Texas. He attended East Chambers High School, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. In addition to being a three-year letterman in football, playing both tight end and defensive end, he also competed in basketball and track and field.
Career
McDonald’s collegiate career began at Rice University, where he played for the Owls from 2009 to 2012. His performance as a senior earned him a first-team All-Conference-USA selection.
His professional path started when the San Francisco 49ers selected him in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. McDonald spent four seasons with the 49ers before he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in August 2017. He became a key part of the Steelers’ offense, recording his best professional season in 2018. That year, he caught 50 passes for 610 yards and four touchdowns.
After eight seasons in the league, McDonald announced his retirement from professional football in January 2021. He finished his career with 181 receptions for 2,036 yards and 15 touchdowns over 101 games.
Personal Life
Vance McDonald is married to Kendi McDonald, and the couple has two children. He is a devout Christian and has stated that his focus after his NFL career would be on his faith and family.
McDonald has been widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts. During his time in the NFL, he was highly active in community service and worked closely with the faith-based nonprofit organization Convoy of Hope. His dedication to charity earned him the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award nomination for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Vance McDonald and his wife, Kendi, have been involved in high-value real estate. In 2023, the couple listed their spiritual retreat in Ligonier Township, Pennsylvania, for $5.5 million.
