Most people recognize Michael Oher as the inspiration behind the blockbuster film,”The Blind Side,” about an unhoused 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 the Tuohy family profited 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 was it affected by the movie and controversy? 

The Athlete’s Childhood In Memphis

Michael Oher was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on May 28, 1986. He was one of twelve children. His mother, Denise Oher, struggled with alcohol and substance use. His father, Michael Jerome Williams, was incarcerated and was eventually murdered when Michael was in high school, reports PEOPLE.

According to Biography, Oher moved between various foster families during his childhood. Despite these circumstances, Oher began to show athletic promise in high school. Eventually, he was accepted to Briarcrest Christian School where he played track and field, basketball, and football. 

From there, he attended the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), where he became a standout offensive lineman, earning a place in the Ole Miss 2024 College Football Hall of Fame, the institution’s website states.

Oher’s story caught the attention of writer Michael Lewis, who wrote the 2009 book, “The Blind Side.” Later adapted into a movie of the same name, the story enhanced Oher’s profile ahead of the 2009 football draft.

From First-Round Pick To Super Bowl Champion

In the 2009 football draft, Oher was selected in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens, according to ESPN. 

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, per Ole Miss Sports. Oher also played in Super Bowl XLVII and Super Bowl 50. 

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 at $13.5 million over five years. After leaving Baltimore, Oher signed a four-year, $20 million contract with the Tennessee Titans in 2014, though he left after the first year.

When Oher joined the Carolina Panthers in 2015, he signed a two-year, $7 million contract before securing a three-year extension worth $21.6 million in 2016. However, a concussion led to his release in 2017 after he failed a physical examination.

Did Michael Oher Sue The Tuohys?

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 was tricked into signing conservatorship documents at age 18. The arrangement, established in 2004, gave the Tuohys legal authority to approve business dealings and contracts on Oher’s 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,” Oher continued.

In his filing, Oher argued that the Tuohy family used this conservatorship to enrich themselves through business deals and royalties from “The Blind Side,” the New York Post reported. Oher claimed that he was the only member of the Tuohy family to not receive royalties, per PEOPLE. The Tuohys denied any wrongdoing. According to PEOPLE, their lawyers 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 in September 2023, PEOPLE 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. According to the Tennessean, Oher purchased the house for $1.3 million in 2014.

The former professional athlete is also a published author of two books: “I Beat the Odds” and “When Your Back’s Against the Wall.”

What Is Michael Oher’s Net Worth Today?

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Michael Oher’s net worth in 2025 is $12 million. The outlet reports that, across his career, Oher has earned a total of $34 million.

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 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 started the Oher Foundation, which aims to empower youth facing socio-economic barriers, it’s website states. The organization offers Oher a platform to provide students with the resources and opportunities that helped him transform his education and career. 

Oher also regularly engages in public speaking and advocacy work.