Desmond Howard Biography, Net Worth, Wife, Kids, and Career

Desmond Howard Biography

Desmond Howard Biography, Net Worth, Wife, Kids, and Career

Desmond Howard, a renowned American football player, has left an indelible mark on the sport. With his exceptional skills as a wide receiver, punt returner, and kickoff returner, Howard has solidified his place in football history. 

He was voted the most valuable player in Super Bowl XXXI and ranked 9th Greatest Return Specialist in NFL History. Today, Howard’s net worth stands at an impressive $14 million.

Early Life and College Success

Born on May 15, 1970, Desmond Kevin Howard lived his childhood in Cleveland, Ohio, United States.

Desmond Howard’s journey to football stardom began during his high school years. As a St. Joseph High School student in Cleveland, Ohio, Howard showcased his talent as a tailback, earning him All-American and All-Ohio honors. He amassed an impressive 5,392 rushing yards and scored 18 touchdowns during his senior season.

Howard’s exceptional performance on the field caught the attention of college recruiters nationwide.

Howard’s football prowess continued to shine when he attended the University of Michigan. As a member of the Michigan Wolverines, he led the Big Ten Conference and received numerous accolades for his outstanding performance.

Notably, Howard won the prestigious Heisman Trophy during his senior year, solidifying his status as one of the greatest college football players of his time. In addition to his athletic achievements, Howard graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in communications in 1992.

Desmond Howard Net Worth

Desmond Howard has a net worth of US $14 million in April 2024. 

Desmond Howard Parents

Desmond Howard’s parents are J.D. and Hattie Howard, who got divorced a few years before his Heisman Trophy achievement.

Desmond Howard Silings

Desmond Howard has one brother, Jermaine Howard, and two stepbrothers, Jonathan and Chad Jones.

Desmond Howard Wife and Kids

Desmond Howard met Rebkah Howard in 1994 and married on May 31, 2003.

Desmond and Rebkah have three children, including two sons, Dhamir and Desmond Jr, and a daughter, Sydney Howard.

Desmond Howard House

Desmond Howard is currently living in Miami.

Desmond Howard NFL Career and Super Bowl Success

Following his successful college career, Howard’s talent was recognized by the Washington Redskins, who selected him as the fourth overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft.

Howard’s impact on the field was immediately felt, particularly as a punt and kickoff returner. His ability to swiftly navigate opposing teams’ defenses made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

In 1995, Howard briefly joined the Jacksonville Jaguars before moving significantly to the Green Bay Packers in 1996. During his time with the Packers, Howard reached the pinnacle of his profession. His exceptional performance shattered records previously set by Fulton Walker in 1985.

Howard’s contributions were instrumental in leading the Packers to Super Bowl XXXI, where he was named the game’s Most Valuable Player. This achievement made him the first and only player in history to receive such a prestigious award as a special teams player.

After his time with the Packers, Howard became a free agent and secured a lucrative deal with the Oakland Raiders. However, his tenure with the Raiders lasted only one season before he returned to the Packers in 1999.

Unfortunately, Howard’s return to Green Bay was short-lived, and he subsequently joined the Detroit Lions in 2000. Howard concluded his NFL career with the Lions in 2002, leaving a legacy of excellence and remarkable contributions to the game.

Desmond Howard Life After Football

After retiring from professional football, Desmond Howard transitioned into a successful career as a college football analyst for ESPN. His in-depth knowledge of the game and charismatic personality have made him a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.

Howard is a Detroit Lions Television Network commentator, providing expert analysis and insights to football enthusiasts.

Few players leave a lasting legacy in college football. Desmond Howard is one of those players. During his college career at the University of Michigan, Howard set numerous records and captured the hearts of football fans across the nation.

Desmond Howard: The University of Michigan Years

Desmond Howard’s college career at the University of Michigan was extraordinary. From the moment he stepped foot on the field, it was clear that he possessed a rare talent that would set him apart from his peers.

In his first season, Howard caught 62 passes for 985 yards and scored an impressive 23 touchdowns. But his contributions didn’t stop there. He also showcased his versatility by rushing for 180 yards and gaining 694 yards on special teams, averaging 27.5 yards per kickoff return and 14.1 yards per punt return.

Desmond Howard Records and Accolades

Howard’s outstanding performance on the field did not go unnoticed. In 1991, he was awarded the prestigious Heisman Trophy, the Maxwell Award, and the Walter Camp Award.

These accolades solidified his status as one of the greatest college football players ever. His first-team All-American honors further validated Howard’s dominance. He captured 85 percent of the first-place votes in the Heisman Trophy balloting, a record-breaking margin.

A Legend in the Making

Desmond Howard’s impact on the University of Michigan football program was undeniable. In 2010, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, which recognized his contributions.

Howard was honored as the inaugural Michigan Football Legend, a program that pays tribute to former players who have significantly impacted the program. This honor came with the distinction of having each Michigan player who wore Howard’s No. 21 jersey wear a patch recognizing his legacy. Furthermore, they would dress at a locker bearing a plaque with his name and the duration of his tenure at Michigan.

Overcoming Obstacles

Howard’s journey to greatness was not without its challenges. Initially recruited as a tailback, he struggled to find playing time during his early years at Michigan.

However, with the help of Michigan counselor Greg Harden, Howard was able to build his confidence and achieve success both on and off the field. Howard credits Harden for his Heisman Trophy win, stating that he would not have achieved such a remarkable feat without him.

The Heisman Pose – A Moment of Triumph

One of the most iconic moments in Desmond Howard’s college career came during the Ohio State-Michigan game in 1991. As a native of Cleveland, Howard was well aware of the intense rivalry between the two teams. Determined to make a statement, he decided to do something special during the game as a shout-out to the people back in Ohio. What transpired was a moment that would forever be etched in college football history.

During a punt return, Howard found himself in the end zone with an opportunity to score. Instead of celebrating with a traditional touchdown dance, he imitated the pose of the football player on the Heisman Trophy bust. This act garnered significant media attention and became an instant sensation.

People from all walks of life, including athletes, celebrities, and even Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, imitated the pose. The Heisman pose symbolized triumph and a signature move associated with Desmond Howard.

Desmond Howard Professional Career

After his illustrious college career, Desmond Howard entered the NFL as a highly sought-after prospect. He was selected by the Washington Redskins in the first round, fourth overall, in the 1992 NFL Draft. Despite joining a team that had just won Super Bowl XXVI and had a talented roster, Howard quickly proved his worth.

Although his performance as a receiver was noteworthy, his skills as a punt and kickoff returner truly set him apart.

Howard’s most notable professional season came in 1996 when he played for the Green Bay Packers. He led the NFL in punt returns, punt return yards, punt return average, and punt return touchdowns.

His 875 punt return yards set a new NFL record, surpassing the previous record set in 1985. Howard’s exceptional performance during the 1996 NFL postseason further solidified his status as a game-changer.

He had a punt return for a touchdown and a 46-yard punt return that set up another score. Although he had a blunder during the game when he failed to come up with an onside kick, Howard’s impact on the game was undeniable.

Desmond Howard Legacy and Impact

Desmond Howard’s impact on football extends beyond his college and professional career. He revolutionized the role of the punt returner and set a new standard for excellence in that position. His ability to change the momentum of a game with a single return made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

Howard’s charismatic personality and infectious smile made him a fan favorite off the field. He was known for his sportsmanship and dedication to community service. Throughout his career, he participated in numerous charitable endeavors and was a role model for aspiring athletes.

Desmond Howard Career History