Cody Ford, the American football offensive guard currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals, has made significant strides both on the field and in his financial journey since entering the National Football League (NFL) in 2019. As of 2025, Cody Ford’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, a testament to his successful career in professional football. This impressive Cody Ford net worth figure represents the culmination of his hard work, strategic career moves, and ability to secure valuable contracts in the competitive world of the NFL.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cody Ford |
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1996 |
| Place of Birth | Pineville, Louisiana, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 329 lb (149 kg) |
| Position | Offensive Guard |
| College | University of Oklahoma |
| NFL Draft | 2019 Round 2, Pick 38 (Buffalo Bills) |
| Current Team | Cincinnati Bengals |
| NFL Experience | 6 years (as of 2025) |
| Cody Ford Net Worth | $10 million (estimated as of 2025) |
Early Career and Draft
Born on December 28, 1996, Cody Ford’s path to the NFL began at the University of Oklahoma, where he played college football for the Sooners. Both challenges and achievements marked his collegiate career. After redshirting in 2015, Ford started the first three games of the 2016 season before suffering a setback with a broken fibula against Ohio State.
However, Ford’s perseverance paid off, and by 2018, he had become a key player on the Sooners’ offensive line. His performance earned him third-team All-American honors, and he was part of the offensive line that won the prestigious Joe Moore Award. This success caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to Ford’s decision to declare for the 2019 NFL Draft.
NFL Journey
Buffalo Bills (2019-2021)
Ford’s professional career began when the Buffalo Bills selected him in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, making him the 38th overall pick. This selection marked the beginning of his journey to building his current $10 million net worth.
During his rookie season, Ford demonstrated his versatility by alternating between guard and tackle positions. He gained significant playing time, especially after starter Ty Nsekhe suffered an ankle injury. Ford’s rookie season, however, ended on a controversial note during the Bills’ Wild Card Round playoff loss against the Houston Texans. He was called for an illegal blindside block, which resulted in a $28,075 fine from the league.
Ford’s second season with the Bills in 2020 saw him starting as the team’s right guard before moving to left guard in Week 3. Unfortunately, his season was cut short when he suffered a torn meniscus in practice prior to Week 12, leading to his placement on injured reserve.
Arizona Cardinals (2022)
In a move that would further impact his career earnings, Ford was traded to the Arizona Cardinals on August 22, 2022, in exchange for a 2023 fifth-round draft pick. However, his time with the Cardinals was marred by injuries, as he was placed on injured reserve shortly after joining the team due to an ankle injury sustained during practice.
Cincinnati Bengals (2023-Present)
Ford’s journey continued when he signed a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals on March 16, 2023. This move proved to be a positive step in his career, as he made the initial 53-man roster as the backup left guard to Cordell Volson. Ford’s perseverance paid off when he made his first start with the Bengals in Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Contract Details and Earnings
Cody Ford’s net worth of approximately $10 million is largely attributed to his NFL contracts and career earnings. Let’s break down his financial journey in the league:
Rookie Contract (2019-2022)
Ford’s initial four-year rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills was worth $7,506,640, with an average annual salary of $1,876,660. This contract included a signing bonus of $3,479,976 and $4,315,395 in guaranteed money.
Current Contract with the Bengals
On March 9, 2024, Ford signed a one-year contract extension with the Cincinnati Bengals. This deal is worth $1,350,000, including $175,000 in guaranteed money. The contract breaks down as follows:
- Base salary: $1,125,000
- Roster bonus: $175,000
- Workout bonus: $50,000
Additionally, the contract includes performance incentives:
- $600,000 for 50% playing time
- An additional $600,000 for 70% playing time
Career Earnings
As of 2025, Cody Ford’s total career earnings are reported to be $10,836,643. This impressive sum has been accumulated over his six years in the NFL, playing for three different teams:
- Buffalo Bills (2019-2021): $6,287,896
- Arizona Cardinals (2022): $1,518,747
- Cincinnati Bengals (2023-2024): $3,030,000
Financial Growth and Management
Ford’s net worth growth over the years demonstrates not only his on-field value but also potentially wise financial management. While specific details about his investments or financial strategies are not publicly available, it’s common for NFL players to work with financial advisors to manage their substantial earnings effectively.
The steady increase in Ford’s earnings, from his rookie contract to his current deal with the Bengals, shows a positive trajectory in his financial status. His ability to secure contracts with different teams, despite facing injuries and setbacks, speaks to his value as a player and his potential for future earnings.
Performance and Value
Ford’s on-field performance has been a key factor in his ability to maintain and increase his earnings. In the 2024 season, he played in 16 games, starting 9 of them, and was on the field for 60.60% of the team’s offensive snaps. This level of involvement demonstrates his importance to the Bengals’ offensive line and justifies his contract value.
Compared to other guards in the league, Ford’s current contract places him in a competitive position. His average annual salary of $1,350,000 ranks him 38th among guards in the NFL. This ranking suggests that while Ford has established himself as a solid NFL player, there’s still potential for increased earnings if he continues to improve and take on larger roles.
Future Prospects
As Ford enters the 2025 season at the age of 28, he will be looking to build on his performance and potentially increase his market value for future contracts. The one-year extension he signed with the Bengals for the 2024 season provides him with an opportunity to showcase his skills and durability.
If Ford can capitalize on his playing time and meet the performance incentives in his current contract, he could significantly boost his earnings for the 2024 season. Achieving 70% playing time would add $1,200,000 to his base salary, bringing his total earnings for the year to $3,150,000.
Impact of NFL Career on Net Worth
Ford’s journey from a second-round draft pick to a $10 million net worth illustrates the potential for financial success in the NFL. However, it’s important to note that this level of earnings is not guaranteed for all players, even those drafted in early rounds.
Several factors have contributed to Ford’s financial success:
- Draft Position: Being selected in the second round ensured a substantial rookie contract.
- Versatility: Ford’s ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line has increased his value to teams.
- Perseverance: Despite injuries and team changes, Ford has consistently found opportunities to contribute and earn.
- Contract Negotiations: The inclusion of performance incentives in his current contract provides opportunities for increased earnings.
Off-Field Earnings and Endorsements
While the majority of Ford’s net worth comes from his NFL contracts, it’s possible that he has supplemental income from endorsements or other business ventures. However, specific information about such deals is not publicly available. For many NFL players, especially those who are not household names, the bulk of their earnings come from their playing contracts.
Financial Challenges and Considerations
Despite the impressive earnings, NFL players like Ford face unique financial challenges:
- Short Career Span: The average NFL career lasts only about 3-5 years, making long-term financial planning crucial.
- Injury Risks: As Ford has experienced, injuries can significantly impact playing time and future earning potential.
- Tax Implications: High earnings place players in top tax brackets, and playing in different states can complicate tax situations.
- Post-Career Planning: Planning for life after football is essential, as earnings typically peak during playing years.
Conclusion
Cody Ford’s net worth of $10 million, accumulated over six years in the NFL, represents a significant financial achievement. From his rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills to his current position with the Cincinnati Bengals, Ford has navigated the competitive world of professional football to build a solid financial foundation.
As he continues his career with the Bengals, Ford has the opportunity to further increase his net worth through on-field performance and potential future contracts. His journey exemplifies how talent, perseverance, and strategic career moves can lead to financial success in the NFL.
While Ford’s net worth is impressive, it’s important to remember that it represents more than just a number. It’s a testament to years of hard work, physical toll, and the ability to perform at the highest level of professional football. As Ford moves forward in his career, fans and financial observers alike will be watching to see how he continues to build upon his success both on and off the field.
