Robert Meachem at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $4 Million
- Birthdate: September 28, 1984
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States
- Profession: Former NFL Wide Receiver
- Nationality: American
Table of Contents
What is Robert Meachem’s Net Worth?
Robert Meachem has a net worth of $4 million. The former NFL wide receiver built his wealth primarily through professional football contracts during his eight-season career in the National Football League. While his total career earnings surpassed $23 million before taxes and fees, his current net worth reflects significant financial setbacks, including alleged mismanagement by financial advisors and legal disputes regarding domestic support obligations.
His financial peak occurred during his transition from the New Orleans Saints to the San Diego Chargers. Meachem secured a lucrative four-year contract worth $25.9 million in 2012, which included $14 million in guaranteed money. This deal stands as the single largest contributor to his lifetime earnings. Despite being released by the Chargers after just one season, the structure of the contract ensured he retained the substantial guaranteed portion, bolstering his financial standing significantly during that period.
However, Meachem’s post-retirement finances faced public scrutiny. He was involved in litigation claiming that his former financial manager mishandled millions of dollars, which impacted his liquidity. Additionally, court proceedings in 2017 regarding alimony and child support obligations revealed cash flow difficulties, with Meachem testifying about the theft of his funds. Consequently, his net worth is a calculation of his retained assets and career accumulation adjusted for these substantial losses and legal settlements.
Early Life
Robert Meachem was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he attended Booker T. Washington High School. He emerged as a standout athlete early in his life, earning All-State honors and helping his team achieve state championships. His athletic prowess in high school attracted attention from major college football programs across the country.
He committed to the University of Tennessee, where he played for the Volunteers under head coach Phillip Fulmer. During his time in Knoxville, Meachem developed into one of the nation’s premier wide receivers. His junior season was particularly dominant, as he recorded 71 receptions for 1,298 yards and 11 touchdowns. This performance earned him first-team All-SEC honors and Consensus All-American status, positioning him as a top prospect for the 2007 NFL Draft.
Career
The New Orleans Saints selected Meachem in the first round with the 27th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Although he did not play during his rookie season due to a knee injury, he became a key contributor to the Saints’ offense starting in 2008. He established himself as a deep-threat receiver, known for his speed and ability to stretch the field. His most significant professional achievement came during the 2009 season when he helped the Saints defeat the Indianapolis Colts to win Super Bowl XLIV.
Meachem continued to be a productive target for quarterback Drew Brees through the 2011 season. His success in New Orleans made him a highly sought-after free agent. In 2012, he signed a major contract with the San Diego Chargers, intended to replace Vincent Jackson. His tenure in San Diego was short-lived, as he struggled to replicate his previous success and was released after one season. He returned to the Saints in 2013 for a final stint before eventually retiring from professional football.
Financial and Legal Challenges
Meachem’s financial narrative includes significant hurdles that altered his wealth trajectory. In 2016, he filed a lawsuit against his former financial advisor, alleging that over $1.8 million was stolen from his accounts through forged signatures and unauthorized transfers. This loss represented a large portion of his liquid assets and highlighted the vulnerability of professional athletes to financial mismanagement.
In 2017, Meachem faced legal consequences related to unpaid child support and alimony. A court in New Orleans ordered him to serve jail time after falling behind on payments totaling nearly $400,000. During the proceedings, Meachem testified that the fraud committed by his financial associates had left him with limited access to cash, complicating his ability to meet the high monthly obligations set during his playing days. These events remain a critical context when analyzing the difference between his gross career earnings and his current net worth.
Salary and Career Earnings
| New Orleans Saints (2007-2011) Initial rookie contract over five years | $11.3 Million (Total Value) |
| San Diego Chargers (2012) Free agent signing bonus and salary | $14 Million (Guaranteed) |
| New Orleans Saints (2013-2014) One-year contracts upon return | $1.5 Million (Approximate) |
| Total Career Earnings Gross earnings before taxes and fees | $23.2 Million |
