Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers' Darrius Heyward-Bey credits his mom for saving much of his $35M earnings

Published Nov. 15, 2016 1:45 p.m. ET

Nunzio Ingrassia

Unlike many pro athletes, Pittsburgh Steelers wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey has a pretty impressive financial portfolio. But when asked how he has avoided the temptation to spend his millions, Heyward-Bey credits his mom.

"I get an email [from her] every Tuesday," Heyward-Bey told ESPN. "I can read it over, check it up. I see where the money is going."

But it’s not like Heyward-Bey’s mom -- Vivian -- isn’t qualified to take on this critical responsibility. She is a certified accountant and receives commission for the work she does for her son.

And because of her work, the former No. 7 overall pick, whose career earnings are about $35 million, has been fiscally responsible. Heyward-Bey and his mom agree on a monthly allowance for the veteran wideout, and he also cuts corners where he can, telling ESPN that he shuts off the cable in his California home for half the year because “nobody’s there watching TV.”

Heyward-Bey also says it helps that he doesn’t have any dependents to support.

"I don't have any kid and I'm not married, so the money I spend is on me. It's really easy to say no to myself," Heyward-Bey said. "I keep things real simple. I'm not really a flashy guy. I understand what I want to buy. I invest my money well and pay my taxes."