Joel Klatt, born on February 4, 1982, in Arvada, Colorado, is a former college football quarterback and a leading sports analyst for Fox Sports. He played for the Colorado Buffaloes, becoming the first three-year starting quarterback for the team since Kordell Stewart. After a brief stint in Minor League Baseball and attempts to join the NFL, Klatt found his calling in sports broadcasting, where he has become a trusted voice in college football.
Known for his meticulous analysis, calm demeanor, and ability to break down complex plays, Klatt has earned recognition as one of the top college football commentators in the country. Over the years, his insights, interviews, and show hosting have made him a favorite among fans and analysts alike.
Quick Facts of Joel Klatt
| Full Name | Joel Klatt |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 4, 1982 |
| Place of Birth | Arvada, Colorado, USA |
| Age | 43 |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 205 lb (93 kg) |
| High School | Pomona High School, Arvada, Colorado |
| College | University of Colorado (2002–2005) |
| NFL Draft | 2006 (Undrafted) |
| Career Highlights | College QB, Fox Sports Analyst |
| Net Worth | Over $5 million |
| Notable Awards | John Mack Award, Eddie Crowder Award |
Early Life and Athletic Background
Joel Klatt was born into a sports-focused family in Arvada, Colorado, where his father, Gary Klatt, coached him in football at Pomona High School. Excelling in multiple sports, Klatt lettered in football, baseball, and basketball throughout high school. As a quarterback, he led his team to success while also earning accolades in baseball, including multiple school and summer league records for home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage.
College Career
Klatt walked on to the University of Colorado football team in 2002. Initially playing sparingly, he quickly earned the starting quarterback position, setting 19 school records in his first season as a starter. Over his college career, he led Colorado to multiple Big 12 North titles, won the John Mack Award, and earned All-Big 12 honors. Unfortunately, his playing career ended due to a severe concussion in the 2005 Big 12 Championship Game against Texas.
Professional Football Attempts
Although Klatt went undrafted in the 2006 NFL Draft, he attended rookie mini-camps with the New Orleans Saints and Detroit Lions and signed brief free-agent contracts. Despite his efforts, he did not make a regular-season roster, turning his focus toward broadcasting.
Broadcasting Career
Klatt began in broadcasting in 2006 as a high school football analyst for FSN Rocky Mountain. He later joined Fox Sports Southwest, Fox Sports Net, and eventually Fox Sports 1 (FS1), where he serves as the lead college football analyst, working alongside Gus Johnson for the Big Noon Saturday window. He also hosts The Joel Klatt Show podcast and has appeared on various radio programs, including The Hardline and The Next Round.
Personal Life
Joel Klatt maintains a relatively private personal life but is known for his dedication to sports media and mentoring athletes. He combines his on-air expertise with an approachable and insightful analysis style, making him a respected figure among fans and colleagues alike.
Net Worth and Salary
Joel Klatt’s estimated net worth is over $5 million, largely from his broadcasting career. Reports suggest his annual salary ranges between $50,000 and $110,500, reflecting his expertise and longstanding reputation in sports media.
