Harry Carson Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Harry Carson — The Linebacker Who Became a Voice of Conscience

On November 26, 1953, in Florence, South Carolina, Harry Carson entered the world — a birthdate that would mark the beginning of a storied journey through football greatness and, later, advocacy. Born Harold Donald Carson to Gladys and Edgar Charles Carson Sr., he was the youngest of six children, raised in a family where hard work and resilience were values instilled early. 

Hard-Nosed Beginnings: From Small Town Roots to Collegiate Standout

Growing up in Florence, Carson attended Holmes Elementary, Wilson Jr. High, Wilson Senior High, and McClenaghan High School. Even as a youngster he showed signs of leadership — serving as senior class president, holding a junior ROTC command, and co-chairing the school’s Bi-Racial Committee.

Rather than coast on early promise, Carson pushed himself. He earned a scholarship to South Carolina State University, where from 1972 to 1975 he did something remarkable: he never missed a game. By his senior season, Carson was dominating: setting school records with 117 tackles and 17 sacks over a 10-game season, helping lead his team to back-to-back conference championships, and earning first-team All-America honors.

With a degree in Education in hand, Carson entered the 1976 draft — the start of a chapter that would firmly etch his name among football legends. 

A New York Legacy: From Under-the-Radar Pick to Defensive Pillar

Selected in the fourth round (105th overall) by New York Giants in the 1976 NFL Draft, Carson was initially transitioned to inside linebacker. By the end of his rookie year, he had claimed a starting job — a sign of things to come. 

Over 13 seasons and 173 games, Carson embodied consistency and tenacity. He led the Giants in tackles during five seasons, served as team captain for ten seasons, and earned nine Pro Bowl selections.  He also helped anchor one of the most feared defensive units in NFL history, alongside teammates such as Lawrence Taylor — a quartet that became legendary among fans and foes alike.

In the defining moment of his career, Carson played a pivotal role in the Giants’ victory in Super Bowl XXI, recording seven tackles as New York bested the Denver Broncos. His style of play — relentless, head-on, and leadership-driven — left an indelible mark on the franchise and the league.

Beyond the Game: Business, Advocacy, and Life After Football

When Carson hung up his cleats in 1988, his drive didn’t fade — it evolved. He founded Harry Carson, Inc., a sports consulting and promotion company.  He’s authored two books — Point of Attack (1985) and Captain for Life (2011) — offering a personal, reflective look at his career, his battles with injuries, and life after football.

Philanthropy and social responsibility have also featured prominently. Carson has contributed to causes ranging from youth outreach — working with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America — to health advocacy, particularly around neurotrauma.

He’s served as a spokesperson for health-care institutions and has spoken internationally about concussions and long-term brain health, drawing from his own experiences as a veteran of a physically punishing sport.

Personal Life & Family: Grounded Amid Fame

Though public attention often focused on his on-field dominance, Carson has always emphasized the importance of family and personal values. According to his official biography, he is married to Maribel and has several children — Aja Carson-Gurley (with Andrew), Donald, and Lucky (with Kay). He is also a grandfather (“PopPop” to grandchildren including Jamison & Kellen, Carsen, Lenny & Tess). 

His stable family life and commitment to community have stood testament to the man behind the helmet: one whose legacy is built not just on tackles and trophies, but on integrity, responsibility, and service.

Estimating the Legacy: Net Worth & Influence

Reliable public sources provide limited concrete data on the current net worth of Harry Carson. Unlike active athletes or current business moguls, Carson has not been the subject of recent wealth-estimate listings by major outlets such as Forbes or Bloomberg. As such, any figure would be speculative.

That said, context helps frame a reasonable picture: his long NFL career, Pro Football Hall of Fame status, post-career business ventures (sports consulting, media appearances), and decades of speaking engagements and advocacy work all point to a sustained — if privately held — financial foundation. Moreover, his enduring influence in sports culture, particularly in raising awareness around concussion and player health, extends well beyond fiscal metrics.

What the November 26 Birthdate Means: A Legacy Beyond Numbers

When you search “Harry Carson birthday” — that date, November 26 — stands as more than a birthdate. It marks the beginning of a legacy shaped by grit, discipline, leadership, and redemption. From the modest streets of Florence, South Carolina to the bright lights of New York and the hallowed halls of Canton, Ohio, Carson’s journey reflects not just athletic excellence but personal transformation and advocacy.

In a generation where athletic careers are often fleeting, Carson’s story provides a blueprint: success, yes — but sustained by purpose, integrity, and a commitment to something larger than oneself.

Note on Sources: Much of Carson’s publicly documented biography — birthdate, career timeline, post-retirement work — is drawn from his official biography, records from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and respected sports-history references.