What is Laveranues Coles’ Net Worth?

Laveranues Coles, a former professional American football player, has accumulated a net worth of $16 million, having earned approximately $42 million from his NFL career. Known for his dynamic presence on the field, Coles made a name for himself as a wide receiver during the early 2000s, particularly with the New York Jets. His decade-long tenure in the league showcased his speed, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure, culminating in over 8,600 receiving yards and a reputation as a dependable veteran.

Coles’ journey, however, transcends his achievements in football. After hanging up his cleats, he chose not to follow the typical route of coaching or sports commentary. Instead, he ventured into entrepreneurship, focused on family life, and maintained strong ties to his roots in Jacksonville, Florida. This decision underscores his desire to carve out a unique path beyond the gridiron.

In a move that surprised many, Coles, now in his late 40s, embarked on an entirely new career as a police officer. After completing the police academy, he joined the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. This career change was driven by a quest for personal growth and a desire to serve his community, rather than financial gain, marking a remarkable shift from professional sports to public service.

Laveranues Coles was born on August 29, 1977, in Jacksonville, Florida. His early life was fraught with challenges, including a traumatic incident of sexual abuse by his stepfather, a secret he kept until he confided in a police officer during his teenage years. This pivotal moment not only altered his life but also fostered a deep respect for law enforcement, influencing his later career choices.

Early Life

Coles attended Ribault High School, where he became a local sports legend, rushing for nearly 5,000 yards as a running back. His exceptional talent earned him a scholarship to Florida State University, where he transitioned to the wide receiver position under the guidance of coach Bobby Bowden. Despite his promising start, Coles faced significant hurdles, including legal troubles that led to his dismissal from the team, adversely affecting his draft prospects.

Coles attended Ribault High School, where he became a local legend as a running back, rushing for nearly 5,000 yards. His speed and athleticism earned him a scholarship to Florida State University, where he transitioned to wide receiver under head coach Bobby Bowden. His college career, however, was turbulent. Legal issues and arrests during the 1998 and 1999 seasons resulted in his dismissal from the team and significantly damaged his draft stock.

NFL Career

Despite concerns surrounding his past, Coles entered the 2000 NFL Draft and was selected in the third round by the New York Jets. Once in the league, he quickly shed his reputation as a risky prospect. Coles became a key contributor in the Jets’ offense, known for his ability to stretch the field and make plays in traffic.

He posted his best season in 2002, recording 89 receptions for 1,264 yards and five touchdowns. Over seven seasons with the Jets across two stints, Coles became one of the most productive receivers in franchise history. He also played for the Washington Commanders and the Cincinnati Bengals, providing veteran leadership and consistent production.

Coles played in 153 NFL games and endured the physical toll of the sport, including multiple concussions and four hip surgeries, two of which were full hip replacements. He retired after the 2009 season, respected leaguewide for his durability, professionalism, and perseverance.

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Contracts, Salaries & Career Earnings

Over the course of his 10-year NFL career, Laveranues Coles earned approximately $42 million in salary and bonuses. His most lucrative deal came in 2003, when he signed a seven-year contract worth roughly $35 million with Washington after a breakout season with the Jets. The contract included significant guaranteed money and briefly made him one of the higher-paid wide receivers in the league.

Coles later returned to the Jets in a trade, continuing to earn strong veteran salaries through the latter half of his career. By his own account, he was a disciplined saver and investor, allowing him to retire comfortably from football without financial pressure.

Following his retirement, Coles explored several post-NFL opportunities. He briefly interned in the Jets’ front office but found the business side of football unfulfilling. He returned to Jacksonville, where he invested in bars, obtained a liquor license, opened a skin-care retail store, and remained active in the stock market. He also devoted time to his family and community, funding educational programs and donating equipment to his former high school.

Coles earned an online degree in criminology, which reignited his interest in law enforcement. Encouraged by friends in the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, he made the unconventional decision to enter the police academy at age 47.

Law Enforcement Career

In 2024, Coles began training with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, enduring months of physically and mentally demanding academy instruction. Despite multiple hip surgeries and chronic pain, he completed more than 1,200 hours of required training and graduated into active field duty.

As a patrol officer, Coles works in one of Jacksonville’s higher-crime districts, responding to domestic disputes, thefts, traffic accidents, and mental health crises. He has spoken openly about the emotional weight of the job and the fulfillment he finds in helping people during their worst moments. His background allows him to connect with at-risk youth and de-escalate tense situations with empathy and credibility.

Personal Life

Coles is a father of four and remains closely connected to his children and extended family. His son Landon attends Harvard Law School, a source of deep pride for Coles. He has spoken candidly about lingering trauma from his childhood and the long process of healing, crediting therapy, family, and service-oriented work with helping him find balance.

Legacy

Laveranues Coles’ legacy is defined not just by statistics or contracts, but by transformation. From a troubled youth to an accomplished NFL veteran, and later from a retired athlete to a police officer serving his hometown, Coles’ life reflects accountability, growth, and purpose. His journey stands as a rare example of reinvention rooted in service rather than celebrity, proving that second acts can be just as meaningful as the first.