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Monte Harrison, a former Major League Baseball outfielder, has made headlines after leaving behind a multi-million-dollar professional career to become a wide receiver for the Arkansas Razorbacks. The 29-year-old athlete joined the university's football programme in May 2024, taking advantage of his remaining college eligibility. Harrison's decision has surprised fans and analysts alike, particularly due to his age, professional background and estimated net worth.

Monte Harrison's Baseball Career and Stats

Harrison was selected 50th overall in the 2014 MLB Draft by the Milwaukee Brewers, signing with the club for a $1.8 million (£1.3 million) bonus. Known for his speed and athleticism, he was a top prospect within the organisation before being traded to the Miami Marlins in 2018. He made his MLB debut with the Marlins in 2020 and also had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Angels in 2022.

Across parts of three MLB seasons, Harrison appeared in 68 games, registering a .176 batting average with 2 home runs, 6 RBIs and 7 stolen bases. In the minor leagues, he played 770 games over nearly a decade, hitting 90 home runs and stealing 210 bases. His final professional appearance came in 2023 with the Triple-A Nashville Sounds, after which the Brewers released him.

Monte Harrison Salary and Net Worth: How Much Did the Former MLB Star Earn?

Harrison's financial trajectory is notable for a player returning to amateur status. His $1.8 million (£1.3 million) signing bonus in 2014 formed the bulk of his early earnings. His 2022 salary with the Angels was reported at $700,000 (£519,151), adding to his total MLB career earnings of approximately $1.4 million (£1.038 million). When accounting for minor league contracts and endorsements, his estimated net worth stands at around $2.59 million (£1.92 million).

Despite this financial security, Harrison is now competing in the NCAA as a walk-on, a move that offers no direct compensation under current college sports regulations. His shift has sparked curiosity over the long-term implications of such a decision.

Monte Harrison's Arkansas Football Stats and Role on the Razorbacks

Harrison's move to college football follows a strong high school career at Lee's Summit West in Missouri, where he was a four-star recruit with over 1,000 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns. Though originally committed to Nebraska, he chose a professional baseball path instead.

In 2024, he played 11 games for the Razorbacks, recording two catches for 29 yards and contributing on special teams, including an onside kick recovery against UAB. Listed at 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, his physicality has impressed coaches.

Now 29, Harrison is among the NCAA's oldest players. As reported by Marca, he is expected to return for his sophomore season in 2025 after walking on to the team shortly after ending his baseball career.

Why Monte Harrison Left MLB to Play College Football at Age 29

Although Harrison has yet to speak extensively on his decision, his return to football appears to stem from unfinished ambitions in the sport. His background as a top football prospect and the NCAA's eligibility rules created a unique window of opportunity. Unlike most athletes, Harrison's financial independence may have given him the flexibility to prioritise passion over profession, marking a rare case in collegiate athletics.

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