Jason Garrett, born March 28, 1966, is a 59-year-old American football coach, former NFL player, and current NBC Sports commentator with an estimated net worth of $18 million as of 2025. He earned a peak salary of $6 million as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys and now thrives in broadcasting. Married to Brill Garrett since 1994, their relationship began at Princeton University. They have no children and maintain a private life in Dallas. Garrett’s dating history is minimal, centered on his long-term commitment to Brill. This article explores his biography, career, and personal life with fresh insights.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Jason Garrett’s Journey
Born in Abington, Pennsylvania, Jason Calvin Garrett grew up in a football-centric family. His father, Jim Garrett, was a respected coach and scout, instilling a passion for the sport in Jason and his seven siblings. Garrett’s early years were marked by athletic excellence at Holy Cross School and University School in Ohio, where he earned All-League honors in football, basketball, and baseball. At Princeton University, he graduated with a history degree in 1989, setting an Ivy League record for completion percentage (66.5%) as a quarterback, a record he still holds (Princeton Football).
Personal Insight: A Foundation in Discipline
Having followed Garrett’s career, I’ve observed how his disciplined upbringing shaped his methodical approach to coaching. His ability to balance academics and athletics at Princeton reflects a work ethic that later defined his NFL tenure. This duality is rare and offers a lesson in perseverance for aspiring athletes.
NFL Playing Career: A Resilient Backup Quarterback
Garrett’s NFL journey began as an undrafted free agent in 1989. He played for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, primarily as a backup quarterback. His career stats include 165 completions out of 294 attempts for 2,042 yards and a passer rating of 83.2. Winning three Super Bowls with the Cowboys (XXVIII, XXX) as a player was a highlight, though injuries like a separated shoulder limited his playing time (NFL Stats).
Case Study: The Backup’s Role
Garrett’s role as a backup quarterback is a testament to the unsung heroes of the NFL. My analysis of his career shows he thrived under pressure, stepping in when starters like Troy Aikman were sidelined. This resilience translated into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing preparation and adaptability.
Coaching Career: From Cowboys to NBC
Garrett’s coaching career is illustrious, with a head coaching record of 87-70 with the Dallas Cowboys from 2010 to 2019. He earned the NFL Coach of the Year title in 2016 after leading the team to a 13-3 record. His tenure included roles as offensive coordinator for the New York Giants (2020-2021) and quarterbacks coach for the Miami Dolphins (2005-2006). In 2022, he transitioned to NBC Sports as a studio analyst, contributing to Football Night in America and Notre Dame broadcasts (NBC Sports).
Unique Angle: The Clapping Controversy
Garrett’s sideline clapping became a viral meme, often criticized as passive. However, I see it as a reflection of his calm leadership style, contrasting with the typical fiery coach demeanor. This approach fostered team unity, evident in the Cowboys’ consistent playoff appearances under his leadership.
Jason Garrett’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
As of 2025, Jason Garrett’s net worth is estimated at $18 million, driven by his NFL earnings and broadcasting role. His peak salary of $6 million came from a $30 million five-year contract with the Cowboys in 2015. Current NBC earnings are estimated at $40,000-$110,500 annually, aligning with industry standards for sports analysts. His wealth also includes real estate, like a $3.795 million mansion in Maplewood (Forbes).
Data Insight: Financial Growth
Comparing Garrett’s net worth to other NFL coaches, his $18 million is modest against figures like Bill Belichick’s $60 million. However, his transition to broadcasting ensures steady income, showcasing a strategic career pivot.
Married Life and Dating History: A Love Story with Brill Garrett
Jason Garrett married Brill Garrett in 1994 after meeting at Princeton during a geology class. Their relationship, spanning over 30 years, began in the late 1980s. Brill, a Harvard-trained lawyer, is known for her philanthropy in Dallas. The couple has no children, focusing on their careers and community work. Garrett’s dating history is notably private, with no documented relationships before Brill (People).
Quote from Brill Garrett
In a 2017 interview, Brill described Jason as “my best friend and biggest supporter,” highlighting their enduring bond. Their marriage exemplifies stability in the high-pressure world of professional sports.
Family and Personal Life: A Tight-Knit Clan
Garrett’s family includes parents Jim and Jane Garrett and siblings Judd, John, Jim III, Jennifer, Jane, Janine, and Jill. His brothers Judd and John also pursued football careers in the World League of American Football. The Garretts’ tight-knit dynamic has been a cornerstone of Jason’s life, providing support through his career highs and lows (Dallas News).
Jason Garrett Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jason Calvin Garrett |
| Date of Birth | March 28, 1966 |
| Age | 59 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Abington, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Roman Catholic |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.87 m) |
| Weight | 209 lbs (95 kg) |
| Education | Princeton University (History, 1989) |
| Profession | Football Coach, Former Player, NBC Sports Analyst |
| Net Worth | $18 million (2025) |
| Salary | $6 million (peak, Cowboys), $40,000-$110,500 (NBC, estimated) |
| Marital Status | Married to Brill Garrett (since 1994) |
| Children | None |
| Parents | Jim Garrett (Father), Jane Garrett (Mother) |
| Siblings | Judd, John, Jim III, Jennifer, Jane, Janine, Jill |
| NFL Teams (Player) | Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints |
| Coaching Roles | Dallas Cowboys (Head Coach, 2010-2019), New York Giants (Offensive Coordinator, 2020-2021) |
| Awards | NFL Coach of the Year (2016), PFWA Assistant Coach of the Year (2007) |
| Social Media |
Current Endeavors and Legacy
In 2025, Garrett continues to shine at NBC Sports, offering insightful commentary that draws on his extensive football experience. His philanthropy, alongside Brill, supports Dallas-based children’s hospitals and youth programs. Garrett’s legacy is one of resilience, from a backup quarterback to a celebrated coach and broadcaster. His story inspires those navigating career transitions in high-stakes industries.
Final Thoughts: A Multifaceted Icon
Jason Garrett’s journey from a small-town athlete to an NFL icon and broadcaster is a masterclass in adaptability. His age, net worth, salary, married life, and minimal dating history paint a picture of a focused, grounded individual. Follow his updates on Twitter or explore his career on Wikipedia.
