49ers star Christian McCaffrey shares his top financial advice for kids
Updated: February 4, 2026, 6:47 p.m. ET
Bay Area students were in for a surprise when they learned they'd be attending a financial literacy conference. Little did they know, they'd be meeting Christian McCaffrey, the record-setting running back for the San Francisco 49ers and 2023 Offensive Player of the Year. The event, hosted by Intuit for Education, was part of the company's Super Bowl week initiative to boost financial literacy.
As McCaffrey took the stage, the crowd went wild, their excitement echoing the roar of a home-game touchdown at Levi's Stadium. But the star player's message was serious: learning about money before it becomes a crucial issue.
In an interview with Greg Johnson, Intuit's executive vice president and chief commercial officer, McCaffrey shared his wish that such programs existed during his high school years. He emphasized the importance of financial literacy, stating, 'I really wish I had something like this back when I was your age. It's a huge deal.'
McCaffrey, who entered the NFL at 20, spoke openly about the financial whiplash he experienced. He went from owing money for parking tickets to earning an NFL salary, a stark contrast that highlights the importance of financial education.
The 49ers star advised students to 'learn the language of money,' which goes beyond understanding financial terms. He stressed the importance of finding wise financial advisors, especially those who have failed and learned from their mistakes. McCaffrey's own journey includes a two-year extension with the 49ers in 2024, averaging $19 million per year, a significant increase from his previous contract.
One of the most memorable moments came when a student asked about McCaffrey's first big purchase. He revealed buying a matte black Aston Martin, which he sold a year later due to lack of use. This anecdote highlighted the importance of practical financial decisions, as McCaffrey noted that cars don't typically increase in value.
David Zasada, Vice President of Education and Corporate Responsibility at Intuit, emphasized the real-world relevance of the event. He stated, 'For kids, they don't normally think about being financially literate until they're making serious financial decisions that could impact them for a long period of time.'
The Intuit tour aims to provide students and teachers with valuable tools, as financial education is now mandated in 30 states, often with limited resources. Zasada assured that all Intuit's professional development for teachers and events are free, making it accessible to all.
