- Name: Andre Waters
- Occupation: Former professional American football player
- Date of Birth: March 10, 1962
- Place of Birth: Belle Glade, Florida, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Not available
- Siblings: Not available
- Spouse: Not available
- Children: Not available
- Net Worth: Estimated at $500,000 in 2024
- Source of Wealth: NFL career
- Ethnicity: African American
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches
- Weight: 200 lbs
- Notable Works: Known for his impactful playing style and contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles
Early Life and Football Career
Andre Maurice Waters was born on March 10, 1962, in Belle Glade, Florida. Growing up in extreme poverty in rural Florida, Waters attended Pahokee High School where he received attention for his football skills. He went on to attend Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, where he was recognized as All-PSAC three straight years.
In 1984, Waters was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Philadelphia Eagles head coach Marion Campbell. He quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive playing style, becoming known as a fierce tackler and ferocious hitter. Waters’ tackle of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jim Everett in 1988 even led to a rule change in the NFL, prohibiting defensive players from hitting quarterbacks below the waist while they are still in the pocket.
NFL Career and Coaching
Waters became an integral part of the Eagles’ defense, leading the team in tackles for four seasons and recording 15 interceptions in 156 games. He was a key player in the Eagles’ defensive unit that ranked first in the league in both run and pass defense in 1991. After his time with the Eagles, Waters played for the Arizona Cardinals before retiring as a player.
After retiring, Waters pursued a career in coaching, working with various college and NFL teams. He served as a defensive backs coach for Morgan State, South Florida, Alabama State, and the Detroit Lions, among others. Despite his coaching success, Waters expressed disappointment in not securing a full-time coaching job in the NFL.
Legacy and Tragic End
On November 20, 2006, Waters tragically died by suicide at his home in Tampa, Florida. His death shocked the football community, and former WWE wrestler Dr. Christopher Nowinski approached Waters’ family to examine his brain tissue. The examination revealed that Waters had developed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from playing football, leading to his depression and ultimately his death.
Waters’ story was later portrayed in the 2015 film "Concussion," with actor Richard T. Jones playing the role of Waters. His legacy serves as a reminder of the dangers of repeated head injuries in contact sports and the importance of player safety in professional football. Waters’ impact on the game and his struggles off the field continue to be remembered by fans and players alike.
Financial Insights
As of 2024, Andre Waters’ estimated net worth stands at $500,000. His primary source of wealth stems from his successful NFL career, where he earned a substantial income through contracts and endorsements. Waters’ dedication to the sport and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles solidified his financial standing within the league.
Factors contributing to Waters’ wealth include his longevity in the NFL, which allowed him to accrue earnings over a significant period. Additionally, his recognition as a Pro Bowl player and his reputation as a hard-hitting safety contributed to lucrative opportunities both on and off the field. Despite facing challenges in his personal life, Waters managed to build a respectable financial portfolio through his football career.
