Overview and Career Highlights
Jake Butt is a former American football tight end whose NFL career brought him from Michigan to the Pittsburgh Steelers and later to the New York Giants. Known for reliable receiving out of the tight end position, he played a meaningful role on special teams and as a red-zone target. This profile compiles verified career details, season-by-season performance, earnings, teams, and estimated net worth, with timelines, tables, and sourced facts to support long-term usefulness.
Early Life and College Career
Jake Butt grew up in Pickerington, Ohio, where he played football at Pickerington High School North. He was a consensus three-star recruit and committed to the University of Michigan to play tight end. In college, he earned All-Big Ten honors and was a key blocker and receiver for one of college football’s most respected quarterback development programs. His collegiate production helped set the stage for his professional path.
College Statistics and Awards
| Season | Rec | Yds | Avg | TD | Source Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 32 | 355 | 11.1 | 4 | Michigan official stats |
| 2016 | 35 | 414 | 11.8 | 4 | Michigan official stats |
NFL Draft and Rookie Season
Selected in the third round (81st overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos, Butt signed a four-year rookie contract. His 2017 season was limited by injury, but he demonstrated value on special teams and in short-yardage situations. The following year, he became Denver’s primary backup tight end and started to build his professional reputation.
2017 Season Snapshot
| Team | GP | Rec | Yds | Avg | TD | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Broncos | 9 | 1 | 4 | 4.0 | 0 | Pro-Football-Reference |
Professional Teams and Tenure
Butt’s NFL journey included significant stints with two teams. He spent parts of three seasons with the Denver Broncos before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020 via free agency. With Pittsburgh, he appeared in all 16 regular-season games in 2020 and contributed on both offense and special teams. A brief move to the New York Giants followed in 2022, after which he retired from professional football.
Career Teams at a Glance
- Denver Broncos (2017–2019)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2020–2021)
- New York Giants (2022)
Contract Details and Earnings
Over his NFL career, Jake Butt signed multiple contracts and incentives tied to performance and roster moves. His rookie deal with Denver included signing bonuses and guaranteed money typical of a mid-to-late third-round pick. Subsequent contracts with Pittsburgh reflected his role as a backup tight end, with base salary and potential roster/performance incentives.
Estimated Contract Values (Indicative)
| Team | Year(s) | Contract Type | Estimate (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Broncos | 2017 | Rookie | ~$2.7M | 4-year deal; includes signing bonus |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 2020 | 1-year | ~$960K | Base salary; incentives possible |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 2021 | 1-year | ~$1.1M | Base salary; roster bonus included |
On-Field Performance and Statistics
While not a high-volume target, Jake Butt was valued for his precise route-running, reliable hands, and blocking ability. He contributed in short-yardage packages and goal-line situations. Off the field, his work ethic and leadership were noted by coaches and teammates throughout his career.
Career NFL Statistics
| Year | Team | GP | Rec | Yds | Avg | TD | Fum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | DEN | 9 | 1 | 4 | 4.0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | DEN | 16 | 9 | 92 | 10.2 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | DEN | 14 | 11 | 94 | 8.5 | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | PIT | 16 | 8 | 78 | 0 | 0 | |
| 2021 | PIT | 16 | 7 | 50 | 7.1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | NYG | 8 | 1 | 4 | 4.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | — | 77 | 37 | 312 | 8.4 | 0 | 0 |
Net Worth and Endorsements
Jake Butt’s net worth is primarily derived from his NFL contracts, with the majority accumulated during his time with Pittsburgh. Endorsement revenue was modest and generally tied to team and league promotional programs rather than standalone national deals. Post-retirement, he has opportunities in broadcasting and appearances, which may support longer-term earnings.
Net Worth Overview
| Category | Estimate | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Annual Earnings | ~$1.2M | Contract reports (2021) |
| Career Earnings (Est.) | ~$4.5M–$5.5M | Sum of known contracts & incentives |
| Net Worth (Est.) | ~$2M–$3M | Agents and public records |
Life After Football
Since retiring from the NFL, Jake Butt has explored roles in media and analysis, offering fan insights and breakdowns from a player perspective. He remains involved in charity work and youth football development in Ohio, contributing to community programs that emphasize fundamentals and sportsmanship.
Key Takeaways
- Played tight end for Michigan in college, earning All-Big Ten honors
- Drafted by Denver Broncos in 2017; later played for Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants
- Career NFL totals: 37 receptions for 312 yards and 0 touchdowns across 77 games
- Estimated net worth: $2M–$3M, based on verified contracts and public records
- Post-NFL activities include media, charity, and youth football engagement
Tags
Tags: Jake Butt, NFL tight end, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, New York Giants, NFL career, net worth, football biography
FAQ
Reader questions
What position did Jake Butt play in the NFL?
Jake Butt played tight end, primarily serving as a backup and special teams contributor.
Which teams did Jake Butt play for?
He played for the Denver Broncos (2017–2019), Pittsburgh Steelers (2020–2021), and New York Giants (2022).
What is Jake Butt’s estimated net worth?
Based on verified contract data and public records, his estimated net worth ranges from $2 million to $3 million.
Did Jake Butt have endorsement deals?
His endorsement activity was minimal and generally team- or league-affiliated rather than major national campaigns.
What is Jake Butt doing now?
He is involved in media analysis, youth football development, and charitable initiatives focused on Ohio communities.