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Bernie Kosar discusses family role in bankruptcy after NFL career

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 3:33 AM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Bernie Kosar discusses family role in bankruptcy after NFL career

Summary

Bernie Kosar reveals that family decisions contributed to his bankruptcy filed in 2009. In his book, 'Learning to Scramble,' Kosar highlights how financial mismanagement by relatives impacted his wealth, which once peaked at about $75 million. He warns young athletes against involving family members in business decisions, suggesting professionals should handle finances. Kosar's bankruptcy case resulted in significant debt, including a $3 million divorce settlement and losses from failed investments.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Kosar filed for bankruptcy in 2009 with $9.2 million in assets and $18.9 million in debt.
•Family involvement in business led to significant financial losses for Kosar.
•He advises young athletes to avoid letting relatives manage their finances.
•Kosar's past debts include $1.5 million owed to the Cleveland Browns.
•His bankruptcy case transitioned to Chapter 7, allowing asset liquidation to pay creditors.

Latest Updates

3:33 AMYahoo Sports — "I Don't Want to Sue My Dad": Browns Legend Reveals Family's Role in Going Bankrupt After NFL Retirement

What they're saying

"
Bernie Kosar’s money problems started before he filed for bankruptcy in 2009, and one of the reasons behind it was his family. In his book Learning to Scramble, he explained how his finances were affected by decisions made by people close to him.
— Yahoo Sports

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