Mike Wallace at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $26 Million
- Birthdate: August 1, 1986
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Profession: Former NFL Player
- Nationality: American
- Position: Wide Receiver
What is Mike Wallace’s Net Worth?
Mike Wallace has a net worth of $26 million. His financial standing is the result of a lucrative ten-season career in the National Football League, where he established himself as one of the premier deep threats of his era. While his initial rookie contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers was modest relative to his production, his speed and scoring ability eventually commanded significant market value during his free agency years.
The majority of his wealth accumulation occurred during his transition to the Miami Dolphins. Wallace signed a massive five-year contract worth $60 million in 2013, which included $30 million in guaranteed money. This deal was one of the largest for a wide receiver at the time and significantly altered his financial trajectory. Over the course of his career, his total cash earnings from player salaries and bonuses exceeded $58 million, allowing him to maintain a high net worth well into his retirement years.
Early Life
Burnell Michael Wallace III was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he grew up in a city known for producing high-level football talent. He attended O. Perry Walker High School, excelling in both football and track and field. His speed was evident early on, as he set school records and became a standout athlete in the state. His performance on the field earned him recognition as a highly touted recruit, leading him to commit to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss).
At Ole Miss, Wallace continued to develop his skills as a wide receiver. He played for the Rebels from 2005 to 2008, where his explosive speed made him a dangerous offensive weapon. During his collegiate years, he recorded respectable statistics and demonstrated the vertical threat capability that would later define his professional career. His strong showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, particularly his 40-yard dash time, solidified his status as a legitimate professional prospect.
Career
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Wallace in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact, showcasing his elite speed and chemistry with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. During his rookie season, he led the league in average yards per reception, quickly earning a reputation as a dangerous deep-ball specialist. By his second season, he had helped the Steelers reach Super Bowl XLV and established himself as a Pro Bowl caliber receiver as part of the “Young Money” receiving corps.
Following his successful stint in Pittsburgh, Wallace entered free agency in 2013 as one of the most coveted offensive players on the market. The New York Times and other major outlets noted the significance of the move when he signed with the Miami Dolphins. While his tenure in Miami produced solid numbers, the team struggled to fully utilize his specific skill set, leading to a trade after two seasons.
Wallace subsequently played for the Minnesota Vikings and the Baltimore Ravens. In Baltimore, he experienced a career resurgence, recording over 1,000 receiving yards in 2016 and proving he still possessed elite speed. He concluded his career with a brief stint on the Philadelphia Eagles before retiring. Throughout his decade in the league, he was known for his durability and consistent ability to stretch opposing defenses.
Salary & Career Earnings
| Pittsburgh Steelers Rookie Contract (2009-2012) | $2.5 Million (Approximate Total) |
| Miami Dolphins Signing & Salary (2013) | $12.7 Million |
| Miami Dolphins Salary & Bonus (2014) | $15 Million |
| Baltimore Ravens Earnings (2016) | $5.7 Million |
| Philadelphia Eagles Contract (2018) | $2.5 Million |
