Andrew Gregory Dalton, born October 29, 1987, in Katy, Texas, is an American professional football quarterback for the Carolina Panthers of the NFL. Nicknamed “the Red Rifle”, Dalton is known for his accuracy, leadership, and consistency on the field. He has played over a decade in the NFL with stints at the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints, earning three Pro Bowl selections and setting multiple franchise records.
Dalton gained national attention at Texas Christian University (TCU), where he became the school’s all-time winningest quarterback, before being drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft.
Quick Facts of Andy Dalton
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Gregory Dalton |
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1987 |
| Place of Birth | Katy, Texas, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 220 lb (100 kg) |
| High School | Katy High School |
| College | Texas Christian University (TCU) |
| NFL Draft | 2011, Round 2, Pick 35 |
| Current Team | Carolina Panthers |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Career NFL Stats (as of 2025 Week 7) | Passing yards: 39,618; TD–INT: 254–150; Completion %: 62.6%; Passer rating: 87.5 |
| Awards & Honors | 3× Pro Bowl (2011, 2014, 2016); 2× MW Offensive Player of the Year (2009, 2010) |
| Net Worth | $50 million |
| Salary | $12 million |
Early Life and High School
Andy Dalton grew up in Katy, Texas, and attended Katy High School, where he played quarterback for the Tigers. During his senior year, Dalton threw for 2,877 yards, 42 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, leading his team to the state finals. His remarkable performance earned him recognition as the Greater Houston Area offensive player of the year by the Houston Chronicle.
College Career at TCU
Dalton committed to Texas Christian University (TCU) in 2005 and redshirted his first year. He became the starting quarterback in 2007 and led the Horned Frogs to victory in the Texas Bowl, finishing his freshman season with 2,459 passing yards and 10 touchdowns.
Career Highlights
- 2008: Led TCU to an 11–2 record and won Poinsettia Bowl MVP
- 2009: Guided the Horned Frogs to a perfect 12–0 regular season and a BCS berth
- 2010: Broke Sammy Baugh’s record as TCU’s all-time wins leader; led team to a 13–0 season and Rose Bowl victory
Dalton graduated holding multiple school records, including 42 wins and 10,314 passing yards, as well as the Mountain West career leader in total offense and plays from scrimmage.
NFL Career
Cincinnati Bengals (2011–2019)
- Drafted in 2011; teamed with A. J. Green to set rookie records
- Led Bengals to five consecutive playoff appearances (2011–2015)
- Set franchise records in passing touchdowns, single-season passing yards, and single-season TDs
- Despite regular-season success, went winless in playoffs
- Final season with Bengals in 2019, team finished last in the NFL
Dallas Cowboys (2020)
- Signed as backup to Dak Prescott
- Became starter after Prescott’s injury; threw 2,169 yards, 14 TDs, 8 INTs in 11 games
Chicago Bears (2021)
- One-year contract; passed for 1,512 yards, 8 TDs, 9 INTs in 8 games
New Orleans Saints (2022)
- Appeared in 14 games; recorded 2,871 yards, 18 TDs, 9 INTs
Carolina Panthers (2023–present)
- Signed a two-year contract
- Saw limited playtime, but set a 2023 season record in Week 3 with 58 pass attempts against Seattle
Personal Life
Dalton married his longtime girlfriend, Jordan Jones, in 2011. The couple has three children: Nash, Noah, and Finley. They also run the Andy & Jordan Dalton Foundation, which supports children and families in need.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
With a career spanning over a decade, Dalton has amassed a net worth of $50 million, largely from NFL salaries, endorsements, and bonuses. He is known for his modest lifestyle, strong family values, and philanthropic efforts through his foundation.
Legacy and Impact
Andy Dalton is regarded as one of the most consistent and reliable quarterbacks of his generation. Known for his leadership, precision passing, and poise under pressure, Dalton set a standard for rookies and veteran QBs alike. While his playoff record may not reflect it, Dalton’s impact on the Bengals and other teams has been significant, both on and off the field.
Interesting Facts
- Nicknamed “Red Rifle” for his strong arm and accuracy
- Set rookie records with A. J. Green for completions and yards by a QB/WR duo
- Holds multiple TCU and Bengals records for wins, passing yards, and touchdowns
- Active philanthropist through the Andy & Jordan Dalton Foundation
