Mel Owens, a name once synonymous with the powerful linebackers of the 1980s, has gone on to carve out a multi-faceted career following his retirement from professional football. From dominating the gridiron with the Los Angeles Rams to successfully transitioning into law and even starring in a reality TV series, Owens’ journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. With a net worth of $2 million, his story is one of triumphs, personal challenges, and a desire to help others, especially athletes navigating life after sports.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 7, 1958, in Detroit, Michigan, Mel Owens was a natural athlete from a young age. His talent in football became evident as he advanced through his schooling years. Owens attended the University of Michigan, where he played for the Wolverines, cementing his reputation as a powerful linebacker. His stellar college career caught the eyes of NFL scouts, and by 1981, Owens was poised for a successful professional career.
Owens’ academic background was just as significant as his athletic one. After his NFL career, Owens didn’t just rest on his laurels; he pursued a legal education and eventually became a practicing lawyer in California. His dual focus on sports and law gave him the unique perspective to understand the challenges athletes face both during and after their playing days, particularly in navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims.
NFL Career: A Decade with the Los Angeles Rams
Mel Owens was selected in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft, the ninth overall pick, by the Los Angeles Rams. A key defensive player, Owens made an immediate impact, playing for the Rams from 1981 to 1990. His career in the NFL spanned a decade during which Owens earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile linebacker. Over his 10 seasons with the Rams, Owens racked up 26 sacks and 4 interceptions—impressive stats that highlighted his ability to defend both against the run and the pass.
The 1980s were a competitive time for the Rams, and Owens played a significant role on a defense that was often at the forefront of the NFC West division. Despite the physical toll the sport took on him, Owens was part of a team that had aspirations for playoff success, providing him with invaluable experience in high-pressure situations.
Owens’ time in the NFL also served as a learning ground for the future. His firsthand experience with the physical toll professional football takes on players would later serve as a foundation for his legal career, particularly in advocating for athletes’ rights after their careers end.
Transition to Law: Advocating for Athletes
After retiring from football, Mel Owens turned his focus to law, enrolling in law school and later establishing his legal practice in Orange County, California. His firm specializes in workers’ compensation law, a field that directly ties to his past experiences as a professional athlete. Understanding the physical strain of professional sports firsthand, Owens found a niche in representing athletes facing the complex legal challenges of securing workers’ compensation benefits due to injuries sustained during their playing careers.
His background as a former NFL player gave him a unique insight into the struggles athletes face once they transition out of their sports careers. Many athletes deal with long-term injuries that affect their ability to work after their careers end, and Owens made it his mission to help them navigate the legal system, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Owens has become a respected figure in his field, combining his legal expertise with his passion for advocating for fellow athletes. His ability to understand both the physical and legal aspects of post-career injuries has set him apart in a competitive legal landscape.
Personal Life: From Heartbreak to New Beginnings
In his personal life, Mel Owens has faced both triumph and loss. He is the father of two sons from his previous marriage. While his personal journey has been marked by hardship—including the passing of his father and the end of his marriage—Owens has continued to evolve, finding new opportunities for growth and connection.
One of the most notable new chapters in Owens’ life came when he was selected to be the lead of the second season of The Golden Bachelor, a reality TV dating show aimed at seniors looking for love. At 66, Owens stepped into the spotlight again, joining the dating franchise that had originally been popularized by The Bachelor series. His role as “The Golden Bachelor” allowed him to embark on a new chapter in his life, seeking companionship after a series of personal struggles. His presence on the show was a fresh take on the dating show formula, emphasizing the idea that love doesn’t have an age limit.
This experience not only broadened his public persona but also gave Owens a platform to connect with people in a completely different way, showcasing his genuine personality and desire for meaningful relationships. As the lead of The Golden Bachelor, Owens was embraced by viewers who found inspiration in his story of rediscovering love and joy in his later years.
NFL Earnings and Financial Journey
Throughout his decade-long NFL career, Owens earned a decent salary for his time. The average salary for NFL players in the 1980s was approximately $160,000 per year. In 1991, Owens’ salary was reported at around $300,000. Considering his nine seasons with the Rams, Owens’ total NFL earnings are estimated to have ranged between $1.5 million and $2.5 million. Although this isn’t an enormous sum by modern NFL standards, it set him up for a comfortable post-retirement life.
Today, with a net worth of around $2 million, Owens’ wealth comes not only from his football career but also from his work as a lawyer, where his specialized knowledge has proven valuable in serving the needs of athletes. His net worth is a testament to his ability to leverage his skills and experiences beyond football, ensuring his financial stability long after his playing days ended.
