by Arbab Jamil / January 15, 2024

Who is Troy Aikman?

Troy Aikman, born on November 21, 1966, in West Covina, California, is a former American football quarterback. He played for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL for 12 seasons from 1989 to 2000. Before that, in high school, he was great at both baseball and football. After starting at Oklahoma, he moved to UCLA and even won the Davey O’Brien Award.

In 1989, Aikman was picked first in the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. During his time with the team, he achieved a lot, making it to six Pro Bowls and winning three Super Bowls. In Super Bowl XXVII, he was named the MVP. Aikman is often considered one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history.

After retiring, he didn’t stop there. Troy Aikman went on to become an entrepreneur and worked as a broadcaster with FOX. He received several honors, getting into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008. Apart from sports, he’s known for his charity work through his foundation. Troy Aikman’s impact on American football is still remembered as remarkable.

Troy Aikman – Overview

Troy Aikman’s Impressive Net Worth

Troy Aikman, renowned for his NFL career, has amassed a substantial net worth. His earnings as an NFL quarterback alone contributed to a remarkable $55 million. Currently, his overall net worth stands at an impressive $65 million.

Aikman’s financial success extends beyond football. As one of the highest-paid football broadcasters, he inked a significant deal with ESPN in 2022, securing an annual salary of approximately $17 million. Beyond broadcasting, Aikman diversifies his income streams through co-ownership of a NASCAR racing team and a stake in the MLB’s San Diego Padres. Aikman’s multifaceted financial ventures showcase his astute business acumen.

Troy Aikman: From High School Star to NFL Legend

Troy Aikman, born on November 21, 1966, in West Covina, California, had a childhood split between Cerritos and later Henryetta, Oklahoma. Growing up, he showcased his athletic prowess at Henryetta High School, earning All-State honors in football and baseball.

At the age of 12, Aikman’s family moved to Henryetta, where he made a mark as a standout in high school sports. Notably, he clinched the 1983 Oklahoma high school state championship in typing.Aikman faced a pivotal decision in college, choosing the University of Oklahoma initially. However, due to a change in offensive strategy that didn’t align with his strong passing skills, he transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Despite sitting out the 1986 season, Aikman excelled in the following two years at UCLA, leading his team to impressive victories.

His achievements continued in the NFL, where the Dallas Cowboys drafted him as the overall number one pick in 1989. Aikman faced challenges early on but rose to prominence, leading the Cowboys to Super Bowl victories in 1992–93 and 1994. Injuries, including concussions, eventually led to his retirement in 2001. Post-retirement, Aikman transitioned to become a television football analyst and earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

Aikman’s College Football Path

Troy Aikman’s college football journey began when coaches Barry Switzer and Jimmy Johnson recruited him for the University of Oklahoma. From 1984 to 1985, Aikman played for the Oklahoma Sooners, starting as the backup quarterback in his initial year and redshirting.

In 1985, Aikman showcased his skills in 5 games, completing 10 of 19 passes for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns. The following year, as the starting quarterback due to an injury to Jamelle Holieway, Aikman led the Sooners to victory in the Orange Bowl. He earned All-Big Eight Conference honors, passing for 2,180 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Despite his success, Aikman left Oklahoma when Coach Switzer introduced an offensive strategy that didn’t align with his strong passing abilities. He then transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), sitting out the 1986 season as a transfer student.

Aikman’s senior season at UCLA in 1987 faced setbacks due to injuries, limiting him to 6 games. However, he finished his college career as a first-team All-Big Eight selection. His last two years at UCLA were marked by a 20-4 record, including post-season victories in the Aloha Bowl (December 1987) and the Cotton Bowl (January 1989).

Recognized as an All-American in 1988, Aikman secured the third position in the Heisman Trophy polling. He also won the 1988 Davey O’Brien Award, solidifying his college football legacy.

Troy Aikman’s NFL Journey

Troy Aikman’s NFL journey began in 1989 when he was drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys. Initially facing challenges, he later flourished under coach Jimmy Johnson, leading the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories in 1992, 1993, and 1995.

Aikman’s career highlights include consistent performance, leading the league in passer rating in 1991 and 1992, and earning six Pro Bowl selections. He was also named Super Bowl XXVII MVP in 1992.

Despite enduring injuries, including concussions, Aikman’s resilience defined his career. His retirement in 2001 marked the end of a remarkable era. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, Aikman left a lasting legacy with the Cowboys, setting numerous passing records and achieving success in NFC competitions.

His impact extended beyond the field, with recognitions such as inclusion in the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team and inductions into the UCLA Sports Hall of Fame (1999) and College Football Hall of Fame (2009).

Troy Aikman’s Legacy with the Dallas Cowboys

Troy Aikman had a remarkable career with the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 2000, where he served as the team’s starting quarterback. His rookie season earned him the NFC Rookie of the Year title, and he continued to shine, leading the Cowboys to multiple victories.

Aikman’s prime years in the early 1990s saw the Cowboys clinch three Super Bowl championships, with Aikman named Super Bowl MVP in 1992. Known for his consistency, he earned Pro Bowl honors six times and secured a spot in the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team. Aikman holds various franchise records for the Cowboys, including most touchdown passes and passing yards.

His illustrious career concluded with his retirement announcement, leading to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. The Cowboys also retired his jersey number 8, solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks.

Troy Aikman’s Recognitions and Achievements

Super Bowl Triumphs:

Aikman secured three Super Bowl victories with the Dallas Cowboys i 1993, 1994, and 1996 (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX).

Super Bowl MVP:

In 1993, Aikman was named the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player, showcasing his stellar performance during the championship game.

Off-field Excellence:

Aikman’s contributions weren’t limited to the field; in 1997, he earned the prestigious NFL Man of the Year award, reflecting his outstanding character and community involvement.

Pro-Bowl Regular:

Aikman consistently showcased his prowess, earning Pro-Bowl selections from 1991 to 1996 as a key player for the Dallas Cowboys.

Precision in Passing:

Acknowledging his exceptional skills, Aikman led the NFL in completion percentage in 1993, demonstrating his accuracy as a quarterback.

Impressive Rookie Start:

Aikman’s remarkable start in the NFL didn’t go unnoticed. In his debut season in 1989, he secured a spot on the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA) All Rookie-Team.

College Triumphs:

Before his NFL days, Aikman contributed to the Oklahoma Sooners’ National Championship in 1985.

College Accolades:

During his college years at UCLA, Aikman earned the prestigious Davey O’Brien Award in 1988 and was named the Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year in 1987.

Outstanding Bowl Performance:

Aikman’s excellence extended to bowl games; he was recognized as the Cotton Bowl MVP in 1989 during his time at UCLA.

Consensus All-American Honor:

Aikman’s standout performance in 1988 at UCLA earned him the distinction of being a Consensus All-American.

Troy Aikman’s Family

Troy Aikman was born to Kenneth Aikman and Charlyn Bailey Aikman. Growing up, he had two older sisters, Tammy Aikman Powell and Terri Starns.

Currently married to Catherine Mooty since 2017, there are speculations about their relationship status due to Troy Aikman being spotted with Haley Clark, a Dallas-based sales director. Although details about any separation are not confirmed, Troy Aikman’s rumored new girlfriend has shared pictures, hinting at a possible relationship.

Troy Aikman and Catherine Mooty met in 2016 after his five-year single period, eventually tying the knot in 2017. Catherine Mooty brought two sons, Val and Luke, from a previous marriage.

In his earlier marriage to Rhonda Worthey, the Dallas Cowboys’ publicist, Troy Aikman and Rhonda shared two daughters, Jordan and Alexa. The couple announced their separation on January 24, 2011, and finalized their divorce on April 12 the same year.

Troy Aikman’s eldest daughter, Jordan Ashley, is 22 years old and attends Washington and Lee University, while her sister Alexa Marie, a year younger, completed her diploma from The Episcopal School of Dallas in 2021.

FAQs

1. What is the value of Troy Aikman’s rookie card?

   The typical price for a Troy Aikman rookie card hovers around $11.52, with the highest recorded sale reaching $1800.

2. What controversy surrounded Troy Aikman in 2022?

   Troy Aikman faced controversy in 2022 for making a sexist comment during Monday Night Football commentary. He later apologized for his remark about the NFL’s quarterback protection.

3. At what age did Troy Aikman retire from the NFL?

   Troy Aikman retired from the NFL at 35, concluding his 12-year career with the Dallas Cowboys.

4. How many Super Bowls did Troy Aikman win?

   Troy Aikman achieved victory in three NFL Super Bowls throughout his career, maintaining a perfect record in the prestigious championship.

5. Why did Troy Aikman retire relatively early?

   Aikman’s early retirement at the age of 35 resulted from various injuries, particularly concussions, which significantly impacted his performance in his final seasons.