The bloodline runs deep in the Becht family. When Rocco Becht steps into the pocket for Iowa State, he’s carrying more than just his team’s championship hopes. He’s continuing a football legacy that spans generations, built on NFL success, coaching expertise, and nearly $12 million in professional earnings that shaped his path to college stardom.
How Did Anthony Becht Build His $11.8 Million NFL Fortune?
Anthony Becht earned exactly $11,835,000 during his NFL playing career from 2000 to 2011, according to Spotrac. The former West Virginia tight end was selected 27th overall by the New York Jets in the 2000 NFL Draft.
His biggest payday came as a rookie, earning $2,430,000, including a $1.95 million signing bonus. The Jets provided his biggest payday overall, paying him $5,550,000 across five seasons from 2000 to 2004.
Becht’s earning power came from his durability and consistency across five different organizations:
- New York Jets: $5,550,000 across five seasons (2000-2004)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: $3,530,000 across three seasons (2005-2007)
- St. Louis Rams: $1,000,000 for one season (2008)
- Arizona Cardinals: $845,000 across two seasons (2009-2010)
- Kansas City Chiefs: $910,000 for one season (2011)
His peak earning year after his rookie contract was 2007 with Tampa Bay, when he made $1,530,000 as base salary.
The numbers tell the story of a reliable professional. From 2000 to 2010, Becht played in 152 consecutive games, ranking third among all NFL offensive players, behind only Brett Favre (291) and Peyton Manning (208). He finished his career with 188 receptions for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns.
What Makes Anthony Becht’s Coaching Career So Valuable?
Anthony Becht is now the head coach of the St. Louis BattleHawks in the UFL, entering his third season with the team. Under his leadership, the BattleHawks posted 7-3 records in the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
However, bigger opportunities keep calling. Recent reports suggest Becht is exploring options beyond the UFL. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Becht interviewed for the West Virginia head coaching position in December 2024 and has received inquiries from NFL teams about coaching roles.
Despite the NFL interest, Becht has stated he prefers college coaching over the professional ranks, saying, “I’ve had opportunities to go the NFL, and I’ve passed. Right now, for me, college coach is where I want to be.”
His coaching resume extends beyond the UFL sidelines. Becht also works as a color commentator for New York Jets radio broadcasts and previously served as a college football analyst for ESPN. His net worth ranges between $8 8 and $12 million, built on his NFL earnings, coaching salary, and broadcasting work.
The coaching expertise has proven invaluable for his son’s development. The younger Becht has praised his father’s coaching abilities, stating: “To me, and I’m not biased or anything, he is one of the best coaches that I’ve seen just because I’ve grown up with him.”
Anthony’s NFL experience has proven invaluable in guiding Rocco’s development at Iowa State.
How High Can Rocco Becht’s College Career Climb?
The son has already started building his own impressive resume. Rocco earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2023, leading Iowa State to an 11-3 record and Pop-Tarts Bowl victory in 2024. He was named to the 2025 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award watch list, recognizing top upperclassman quarterbacks.
Trailing late in the 4th quarter, Rocco Becht led the Cyclones to a perfect 2 minute drill on an 80 yard drive to take the lead and win the game. The Cyclones remained undefeated with this win. pic.twitter.com/YWI46V39qz
— College Football Live (@CollegeFBonX) March 6, 2025
His strong play has translated into significant financial opportunities through NIL deals. His valuation reached $1.3 million during the 2024 season, which he has used to fund youth football camps and donate to local charities.
Now, Rocco carries the Becht football legacy forward at Iowa State. Saturday’s season opener against Kansas State will start another promising campaign for the quarterback who learned the game from an NFL veteran who earned nearly $12 million doing what his son now does at the college level.
