Most people recognize Michael Oher as the inspiration behind “The Blind Side,” the blockbuster film about a homeless teenager adopted by a wealthy family who transforms into an NFL star. But as reported by ESPN, in 2023, the 39-year-old surprised many by filing a legal petition claiming that he was never legally adopted by the Tuohy family, accusing them of profiting from his story without his permission.
This revelation reignited debate over Hollywood biopics and how the subjects of these movies are portrayed and rewarded. It also brings into question Michael Oher’s compensation. What is Michael Oher’s net worth now, and how has it been affected by the movie and controversy?
The Athlete’s Childhood In Memphis Was Riddled With Struggle
Michael Oher was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on May 28, 1986. He was one of twelve children of his mother, Denise Oher, who struggled with alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction. “I grew up in Hurt Village… Crack cocaine, the drug epidemic – it destroyed generations,” he explained in conversation with Big Think. His father, Michael Jerome Williams, was incarcerated and was eventually murdered when Michael was in high school.
“I was tired of not having a routine, tired of going from house to house and couch-surfing and having to run from the authorities,” he reflected. “I didn’t believe that anyone other than my family could love me, and I would rather be hungry and sleeping on the floor so long as I knew the people I was with would always be looking out for me,” Oher shared. “I had needed to forget a lot of stuff in order to not get swallowed up by the hurt and sadness.”
According to Biography, Oher was moving between various foster families by the time he was seven. Despite these daunting circumstances, Oher began to show athletic promise in his freshman year at a public high school in Memphis. Eventually, Tony Henderson, an auto mechanic with whom Oher was temporarily living, encouraged him to apply to Briarcrest Christian School.
From there, he attended the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), where he became a standout offensive tackle, earning unanimous All-American honors and several other awards. He also caught the attention of writer Michael Lewis, who would write about him in the book “The Blind Side.” Later adapted into a movie of the same name, the story made Oher famous and enhanced his profile ahead of the 2009 draft.
From First-Round Pick To Super Bowl Champion
Oher was selected in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2009 and made an immediate impact. He started every game as a rookie for the Ravens and played a crucial role in the team’s journey to victory in Super Bowl XLVII, earning a coveted championship ring during the 2012 season.
Over eight NFL seasons (five with Baltimore, followed by stints with the Tennessee Titans and Carolina Panthers) he appeared in a total of 110 games, always as a starter. Oher also helped the Panthers reach Super Bowl 50 in 2016. His ability to compete at the highest level made him a respected offensive lineman.
During his NFL career, Oher earned approximately $34 million in total salary and contract payments, according to the NY Post. His rookie contract with the Ravens was valued between $13.5–$13.8 million over five years. After leaving Baltimore, Oher earned $6 million from his stint with the Tennessee Titans.
When the Memphis native joined the Carolina Panthers, he signed a two-year, $7 million contract before securing a three-year extension worth $21.6 million in 2016, with a notable portion guaranteed. However, injuries led to his release in 2017 after failing a physical following a concussion.
Per People, in August 2023, Michael Oher filed a legal petition in a Tennessee probate court against Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy. According to Oher, he had been misled into believing he was being adopted by the family when, in reality, he signed conservatorship documents at age 18. The arrangement, established in 2004, gave the Tuohys legal authority to approve business dealings and contracts on his behalf. Such powers are usually reserved for guardians of minors or people unable to make decisions for themselves.
“The first time I heard ‘I love you,’ it was Sean and Leigh Anne saying it,” Oher recalled, as Global News reports. “When that happens at 18, you become vulnerable. You let your guard down and then you get everything stripped from you. It turns into a hurt feeling.”
In his filing, Oher argued that the Tuohy family used this conservatorship to enrich themselves from the success of “The Blind Side,” while he received only a small fraction of the profits. Court documents revealed that Oher’s compensation from the movie totaled just over $138,000 in royalties spread across a 15-year period. This is despite the film’s worldwide box office earnings surpassing $300 million, according to NPR.
The Tuohys denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the arrangement was never about financial control but rather a means to help Oher gain NCAA eligibility to attend their alma mater, the University of Mississippi. Their lawyers also claimed that Oher received an equal share of revenue from “The Blind Side.” Ultimately, while both parties disputed the finances, there was agreement on one matter: the conservatorship should be terminated.
The Tuohys publicly stated they would not challenge Oher’s request to end it, resolving the complicated dispute between the family and the former NFL star, Today reports.
Oher’s Wealth Has Also Grown Thanks To Real Estate And Book Deals
Michael Oher’s net worth includes his 8,126-square-foot home in Tennessee. Purchased for $1.3 million in 2014, the property has been valued as high as $3.3 million, stands as a significant asset and reflects growth in real estate value in his portfolio.
The former professional athlete is also a published author of two books: “I Beat the Odds” and “When Your Back’s Against the Wall.” The royalties from those contribute to his net worth. According to court documents cited by People, Michael Oher also received royalties from profits related to the film and book “The Blind Side” between 2007 and 2023.
What Is Michael Oher’s Net Worth Today?
Michael Oher’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be between $12 million and $20 million, with the most commonly cited number being $12 million. Compared to NFL peers who have secured multimillion-dollar endorsement deals and lucrative business ventures, the two-time Super Bowl player’s financial profile is more modest, reflecting his shorter career span. Nonetheless, he remains financially comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money did Michael Oher make in his NFL career?
According to industry website Over the Cap, Michael Oher earned approximately $34 million in salary during his eight seasons in the NFL. This includes payments from his time with the Ravens, Titans and Panthers.
What is Michael Oher doing now?
Michael Oher is involved in philanthropy through his Oher Foundation, in addition to public speaking and advocacy. He continues to share his story in hopes of supporting at-risk youth.
