Facts collected by author Tatyana Scandrick from Lennoxmag.com.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jon Abbate |
| Date of Birth | June 18, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| High School | Harrison High School, Kennesaw, Georgia |
| College | Wake Forest University (Linebacker, 2004–2006) |
| NFL Teams | Houston Texans, Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints |
| UFL Team | Sacramento Mountain Lions (2009–2010) |
| Family Foundation | The Five Foundation |
Early Life
Jon Abbate was born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on June 18, 1985, before moving to Kennesaw, Georgia, with his family. He was a standout linebacker at Harrison High School, known for his tackles and leadership. His high school performance earned him a Wake Forest University scholarship.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | June 18, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| Hometown | Kennesaw, Georgia |
| High School | Harrison High School |
| Position | Linebacker |
Collegiate Career
Abbate played ACC linebacker for Wake Forest from 2004 to 2006. He led the Demon Deacons to an Orange Bowl participation, won MVP honors in the 2006 ACC Championship Game, and had over 100 tackles in both his freshman and junior seasons after redshirting in 2003. His effort and performance won him team captain in his final year.
| Season | Games Started | Total Tackles | Tackles for Loss | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | 12 | 101 | 13 | ACC All-Freshman Honorable Mention |
| 2005 | 10 | 76 | 8 | Wake Forest Team Defensive Leader |
| 2006 | 12 | 120 | 15 | ACC Championship MVP; Team Captain |
Professional Career
After going undrafted in 2007, Abbate signed as a free agent with the Houston Texans then briefly with the Washington Redskins and New Orleans Saints. His NFL career ended in 2010 after joining the Sacramento Mountain Lions in 2009. His career was defined by endurance through injuries and roster competition.
| Year(s) | Team | League | Role/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Houston Texans | NFL | Signed as undrafted free agent |
| 2008 | Washington Redskins, Saints | NFL | Practice squad and training camp |
| 2009–2010 | Sacramento Mountain Lions | UFL | Starting linebacker |
Net Worth and Ventures
Jon Abbate’s net worth is unknown, and estimates vary. Estimates range from $1 million to $9 million, depending on fleeting NFL earnings and modest post-career business pursuits. No endorsements or big entrepreneurial projects are reported.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $1 million – $9 million (unverified) |
| Primary Income | NFL and UFL contracts |
| Post-Career | Private ventures (undisclosed) |
Family and Legacy
After Jon’s younger brother Luke died in 2006, the Abbate family has triumphed and suffered. Luke’s organ gifts to five recipients sparked the Five Foundation to promote safe driving and organ donation. Fans and teammates praised Jon for wearing jersey number 5 in 2006 to remember Luke.
| Family Member | Relation | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Luke Abbate | Younger brother | His organ donations inspired the Five Foundation |
| Steven Abbate | Father | Co-founder and spokesperson for family foundation |
| Maryanne Abbate | Mother | Advocated for driving safety and organ donation |
| Adam Abbate | Brother | Family supporter, private individual |
| Rachel Abbate | Sister | Family supporter, private individual |
FAQ
When was Jon Abbate born?
Jon Abbate was born in Fort Lauderdale on June 18, 1985.
Which college did Jon Abbate attend?
He played linebacker at Wake Forest from 2004 to 2006.
He played for which professional teams?
After joining the Houston Texans in 2007, Abbate played for the Redskins, Saints, and Sacramento Mountain Lions.
What inspired the Five Foundation?
After Luke Abbate’s 2006 organ donation to five recipients, the Five Foundation was founded.
What college jersey number did Jon wear?
For 2006, he wore number 5 to honor his brother Luke.
Does Jon Abbate have a public net worth?
His actual net worth is unknown, with estimates ranging from $1 million to $9 million.
