Charles Cross: From College Standout to NFL Financial Success Story
The Seattle Seahawks selected Charles Cross with the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, bringing immense expectations to the young offensive lineman. Hailing from Mississippi State University, Cross had already established himself as one of college football's premier pass protectors before entering the professional ranks.
Building a Foundation Through College Excellence
During his collegiate career at Mississippi State, Cross developed a reputation for reliability, athleticism, and steady performance rather than flashy plays. These qualities made him particularly valuable to NFL teams seeking long-term solutions at the crucial left tackle position. His consistent protection skills and technical proficiency caught the attention of scouts across the league.
The transition from college football to the NFL represented both a professional challenge and a significant financial opportunity for the young athlete.
The Lucrative Rookie Contract That Started It All
Upon being drafted by the Seahawks, Cross signed a substantial four-year rookie contract worth approximately $21.38 million, fully guaranteed as is standard for top-10 selections. The deal included a significant signing bonus of roughly $12.7 million, providing immediate financial security before he ever played a professional snap.
This contract structure resulted in an average annual salary exceeding $5 million, placing Cross well above average earnings for players at such an early stage of their careers. The Seahawks organization demonstrated their confidence in his abilities by treating him as a foundational piece from the very beginning.
On-Field Performance and Financial Growth
Cross immediately became a day-one starter for the Seahawks, securing the left tackle position and rarely relinquishing it. While offensive linemen typically don't receive the same media attention as skill position players, their value to team success cannot be overstated. Protecting the quarterback's blind side remains one of the most critical responsibilities in football, and Cross's reliability in this role directly impacts his long-term earning potential.
As of 2026, Charles Cross's net worth is estimated to be between $8 million and $10 million, primarily derived from his NFL contract and signing bonus. After accounting for taxes and professional fees, he remains in the wealth-building phase of his career rather than having reached his peak earning years.
Endorsements and Financial Strategy
While endorsement deals have begun to materialize for Cross, they remain relatively modest at this stage. As a starting lineman and former top-10 draft pick, he has secured several local partnerships in the Seattle area that provide additional income streams. Cross appears to be taking a prudent approach to financial management, likely focusing on safer investment vehicles such as managed funds or real estate rather than pursuing riskier ventures early in his career.
The Future Financial Landscape
The most significant financial leap for Charles Cross still lies ahead. If he continues developing into a reliable franchise left tackle, his second contract could potentially reach the $18 to $22 million per year range. Such a deal would dramatically transform his net worth and establish him among the league's highest-paid offensive linemen.
Currently, Cross finds himself in an ideal position for a young NFL cornerstone: financially secure, consistently improving his game, and strategically positioned for substantially larger paydays in the future. His journey from college standout to NFL financial success story continues to unfold with promising prospects ahead.
