Quick Facts

In the 1960s and early 1970s, Lance Rentzel was a gifted and prosperous wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). He was chosen for two Pro Bowls while playing for the Los Angeles Rams, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings.

But a string of incidents involving indecent exposure to young girls ruined his career and personal life, resulting in a divorce, legal issues, and his eventual retirement from football.

How much is the Net worth of Lance Rentzel?

Lance Rentzel is a former professional American Football Player who has a net worth of around $1 million US.

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Early Life & College Career

On October 14, 1943, Lance Rentzel was born in Flushing, New York. Subsequently, he relocated to Oklahoma City and enrolled in Casady School, where he demonstrated exceptional athletic ability in multiple sports and emerged as the class valedictorian.

Furthermore, he was awarded a football scholarship by the University of Oklahoma, where he was coached by the renowned Bud Wilkinson. Rentzel, who was a running back, receiver, and punter and was recognized as an All-American in 1964, as well as an All-Big Eight selection in 1963 and 1964, was well-known for his speed and versatility.

Though he faced controversy when he and three other Oklahoma players were declared ineligible for the 1965 Gator Bowl game because they had signed with professional teams prior, Rentzel emerged as one of the top prospects in the 1965 NFL draft.

Rentzel chose to pursue a career in the NFL despite being selected by the Buffalo Bills in the AFL draft and the Minnesota Vikings in the second round.

Lance Rentzel’s NFL Journey: From Injuries to Records to Super Bowl

Due to injuries, Rentzel’s professional career got off to a poor start, which limited his playing time as the Vikings’ backup running back and kickoff returner. However, as a rookie, he set a franchise record for the longest kickoff return (101 yards) and was undefeated until 2007. A pivotal moment in Rentzel’s career came in 1967 when he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys.

Rentzel was a standout wide receiver in the league, even when he was positioned as a flanker. He led the Cowboys in receptions in 1967 and 1968 and was second in receiving yards only to Bob Hayes. Furthermore, in 1969, Rentzel led the NFL in yards per catch (22.3) and receiving touchdowns (12).

His exceptional play earned him an All-Pro selection in 1966 and two Pro Bowl selections in 1967. Most importantly, Rentzel was essential to the Cowboys’ four straight postseason trips and 1970 Super Bowl victory.

Rentzel was a productive wide receiver with the Los Angeles Rams after being traded to them in 1971. He led the team in receptions in 1971 and 1972 and finished second in receiving yards. In 1973, his efforts also aided the Rams in winning the NFC West division. With 328 receptions, 5,539 yards, and 52 touchdowns during his nine-season NFL career, Rentzel announced his retirement following the 1973 season.

Inside His Personal Life & Scandal

In 1969, Rentzel wed the well-known actress, singer, and dancer Joey Heatherton. The couple, who appeared in ads, TV series, and magazines, was hailed as one of the most gorgeous duos in Hollywood. Nonetheless, there was a darker side to their connection.

He also had a compulsive issue, which made him uncomfortable around young girls. This activity happened more than once without anyone noticing or reporting it. He clarified that he used it as a coping mechanism for the stress and worry associated with his football career and that he felt regret and guilt after every event.

In a Dallas suburb, he flashed a 10-year-old girl in November 1970, revealing his secret. The Cowboys charged him, put him in jail, and suspended him. He paid $1,000, received two years of probation and therapy, and acknowledged to having been exposed indecently.

His career and reputation were destroyed by the controversy. After being traded, he encountered hostility and threats at the Rams. He lost his business and endorsements. Heatherton filed for divorce with the former NFL star in 1972, citing him as having mistreated her. He apologized for hurting his family, friends, and fans, saying it was his worst fear.

How Lance Rentzel Tried to Move On After the Scandal?

Rentzel authored his memoirs “When All the Laughter Died in Sorrow” in 1973, frank about his tribulations after confronting difficulties after leaving football. Acting appearances in “The Longest Yard” and “Police Story” marked his acting debut; he went on to become a sports pundit and motivational speaker. According to some accounts, he got married again, had two kids, converted to Christianity, and gave to charity.

Legal and financial difficulties beset Rentzel; he was arrested in the 1970s for driving under the influence and for possessing marijuana. In 1981, he filed for bankruptcy, which resulted in the loss of his house and other possessions.

He also struggled with conditions like diabetes, heart troubles, and arthritis. Later, he relocated to Washington, D.C., where he worked as a consultant and lobbyist before moving back to Dallas, where he now resides as of 2021.

Rentzel, who is 80 years old, has kept a modest public profile. He has expressed regret for previous deeds and asked for pardon and comprehension. He is proud of his football accomplishments, but he would rather to be remembered for his good deeds rather than his mistakes.

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