Steve DeBerg at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $5 Million
- Birthdate: January 19, 1954
- Birthplace: Oakland, California
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Former NFL Quarterback, Coach
Table of Contents
What is Steve DeBerg’s Net Worth?
Steve DeBerg has a net worth of $5 million. This financial standing stems primarily from his remarkable longevity in the National Football League, where he played for 17 seasons across two decades. Unlike modern quarterbacks who sign contracts worth hundreds of millions, DeBerg played during an era where salaries were significantly lower, yet his ability to remain on active rosters for nearly 20 years allowed him to accumulate substantial wealth relative to his peers. His earnings were bolstered by his role as a reliable starter and a high-value backup for multiple franchises.
His financial portfolio expanded after his playing days through various coaching roles in the NFL and the Arena Football League. DeBerg served as the head coach for the Indiana Firebirds and later took on assistant coaching positions with the New York Giants. While he did not secure the massive endorsements seen in today’s market, his consistent employment in professional football created a stable financial foundation. His post-retirement activities have maintained his wealth, distinguishing him as a financially successful figure from the pre-salary cap era.
Mentoring NFL Legends
DeBerg holds a unique place in history as the quarterback who directly preceded three of the greatest players to ever play the position. During his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, he started ahead of a young Joe Montana. Later, upon moving to the Denver Broncos, he served as the starter before John Elway took over the reins. His career path eventually led him to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played ahead of Steve Young.
This specific trajectory earned him a reputation as a consummate professional who prepared franchises for future success. While he was a capable starter in his own right, his presence on the roster often provided stability while future Hall of Fame talents developed behind him. This dynamic increased his value to organizations, as coaches trusted him to lead the team competently while mentoring high-profile draft picks.
Early Life
Steve DeBerg was born in Oakland, California, where he developed an early aptitude for athletics. He attended Savanna High School in Anaheim, distinguishing himself as a talented passer with strong mechanics. His performance at the high school level drew attention from college recruiters, eventually leading him to stay close to home for his collegiate career.
He enrolled at San Jose State University, where he became the starting quarterback for the Spartans. During his time at San Jose State, he refined the passing skills that would later define his professional longevity. His college career demonstrated enough promise to capture the interest of NFL scouts, despite not being a top-tier draft prospect. He graduated with experience running a pro-style offense, which proved vital for his transition to the professional ranks.
Career
The Dallas Cowboys selected DeBerg in the 10th round of the 1977 NFL Draft, but his professional journey truly began when he joined the San Francisco 49ers. He became the first quarterback to implement Bill Walsh’s “West Coast Offense,” putting up solid numbers and leading the league in completions in 1979. His command of the offense established him as a legitimate starter in the league, even as the 49ers transitioned to Joe Montana.
DeBerg moved to the Denver Broncos and later the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he enjoyed one of his most statistically productive periods. In 1984, he threw for 3,554 yards, demonstrating his ability to move the ball effectively through the air. His career reached its competitive peak with the Kansas City Chiefs in the early 1990s. Under head coach Marty Schottenheimer, DeBerg led the Chiefs to the playoffs and famously played with a broken finger, guiding the team with grit and precision. His performance during the 1990 season was a career highlight, as he threw 23 touchdowns against just four interceptions.
After a brief retirement, DeBerg returned to the NFL in 1998 at the age of 44 to join the Atlanta Falcons. This return made him the oldest quarterback to start an NFL game at that time. He served as the backup to Chris Chandler during the Falcons’ run to Super Bowl XXXIII. This final stint underscored his incredible durability and the respect he commanded across the league. Following his second retirement, he transitioned into coaching, further extending his professional involvement in the sport.
Salary and Career Earnings
DeBerg played during a transitional economic era for the NFL. While his early contracts were modest by today’s standards, his peak years with the Kansas City Chiefs and his return to the Atlanta Falcons saw him earning salaries consistent with top-tier starters of the early 1990s. The following table highlights estimated earnings during his key contract years.
| Team / Contract Year (Period) | Estimated Earnings |
| Kansas City Chiefs Starting Era (1990–1991) | $1.5 Million – $2 Million |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers Free Agency Deal (1992–1993) | $2.5 Million – $3 Million |
| Miami Dolphins Backup Contract (1993–1994) | $800,000 – $1 Million |
| Atlanta Falcons Return (1998) | $400,000 – $600,000 |
