$40 Million
What is Russell Okung’s net worth, Salary and Contracts?
Russell Okung is an American football player who has a net worth of $40 million. He was selected as the 6th overall pick at the 2010 NFL draft by the Seattle Seahawks. As of this writing, Russell has earned well over $110 million in NFL salary alone. In recent years he’s become notable for converting half of his $13 million NFL salary payments into Bitcoin. More info on this later in the article.
Russell Okung was born in 1987 in Fort Bend, Texas. He attended George Bush High School where he was selected first-team All Greater Houston and first-team all-district selection. Russell Okung was recruited by schools such as Oklahoma, LSU, and Nebraska, but he committed to Oklahoma State in January 2006. He played for coach Mike Gundy’s Cowboys team from 2006 to 2009. He played right tackle as a freshman and left tackle from sophomore year onward.
Biography
Russell Okung, the former NFL offensive tackle, has had a remarkable journey from his early years in Houston, Texas, to his successful career in the National Football League. In this article, we’ll delve into his background, his football career, and his notable contributions beyond the football field.
Early Years and High School Success
Russell Okung was born on October 7, 1988, in Houston, Texas. His journey to becoming an NFL star began at George Bush High School in Fort Bend, where he quickly gained recognition for his athletic prowess. Okung’s talent on the football field earned him the prestigious title of being a first-team All-Greater Houston and first-team all-district selection.
But Okung wasn’t limited to just football; he also excelled in track and field, specifically the discus throw, where he achieved a personal record of 47.50 meters. His remarkable versatility in sports hinted at a bright future ahead.
Despite his early success, Okung faced some challenges. At 250 pounds (113 kg) in high school, he didn’t fit the typical profile of a hulking offensive tackle. Nevertheless, his determination and skill set made him a standout prospect in the class of 2006. Rivals.com recognized him as a three-star prospect and ranked him as the No. 33 offensive tackle in his class.
Okung’s talent caught the attention of several major schools, including football powerhouses like Oklahoma, LSU, and Nebraska. After careful consideration, he made the pivotal decision to commit to Oklahoma State in January 2006, setting the stage for his college football journey.
College Football Excellence
Russell Okung’s time at Oklahoma State University marked a significant chapter in his football career. As a student-athlete, Okung dedicated himself to both academics and football. He pursued a degree in marketing, demonstrating his commitment to education alongside his passion for the game.
On the football field, Okung’s star continued to rise. He played as an offensive tackle for the Oklahoma State Cowboys, where his outstanding performances led to national recognition. Okung’s exceptional skills and dedication earned him the distinction of being named an All-American not once, but twice during his college career.
The NFL Draft and Professional Career
Okung’s excellence on the college gridiron did not go unnoticed. In the 2010 NFL Draft, he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks as the sixth overall pick. This marked the beginning of his journey in the National Football League, where he would go on to make a significant impact as an offensive tackle.
Over the course of his NFL career, Russell Okung had the privilege of representing multiple teams. After his tenure with the Seahawks, he went on to play for the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, and Carolina Panthers. His consistent performance and versatility as an offensive lineman made him a sought-after talent in the league.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond the football field, Russell Okung is a man of many dimensions. He is the son of Akpabio and Victor Okung, and he graduated with a degree in marketing from Oklahoma State University in 2009. Okung’s Nigerian ancestry is an integral part of his identity, and it’s a heritage he’s proud to embrace.
In 2016, Okung co-founded the Greater Foundation, an organization dedicated to equipping the next generation with the tools they need to reach their highest potential through mentoring and leadership development. This foundation reflects Okung’s commitment to giving back to his community and providing opportunities for underserved youth.
One of Okung’s particular passions is creating access and opportunities for young people, especially in the tech sector. Through his personal efforts and the Greater Foundation, he strives to bridge the gap and empower underserved youth to pursue careers and interests in technology.
Beyond philanthropy and community engagement, Russell Okung has shown a keen interest in the startup world and entrepreneurship. His curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit have driven him to explore opportunities beyond the football field.
Embracing Cryptocurrency and Bitcoin Advocacy
In recent years, Russell Okung has made headlines for his involvement in the world of cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin. Starting in 2019, he became an outspoken advocate for Bitcoin, publicly expressing his support for the digital currency.
One of the most notable developments was Okung’s request, along with fellow NFL player Matt Barkley, to have their salaries paid in Bitcoin. This move was groundbreaking and garnered significant attention from both the sports and cryptocurrency communities. While their request was initially denied, it highlighted the growing intersection of sports and cryptocurrency.
Furthermore, Russell Okung went a step further by launching his own Bitcoin brand and event series titled “Bitcoin Is _.” This initiative aimed to educate and engage people in discussions about the potential of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. The inaugural installment of this event series took place on September 1, 2019, in Los Angeles, drawing individuals interested in the future of digital currencies.
As of December 2020, Okung took his commitment to Bitcoin to the next level by allocating a significant portion of his NFL salary to purchasing Bitcoin. This move underscored his belief in the long-term potential of cryptocurrency as a store of value.
Conclusion
Russell Okung’s journey from a standout high school athlete in Texas to an accomplished NFL offensive tackle is a testament to his determination and talent. His college football success, coupled with his philanthropic endeavors and advocacy for cryptocurrency, showcase a well-rounded individual who continues to make a positive impact both on and off the field.
As Okung’s career evolves and he explores new avenues, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, entrepreneurs, and advocates for positive change. Russell Okung’s legacy extends beyond his football achievements, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond
