Top 5 Largest NFL Bets Ever Placed | High-Stakes History
NFL betting has created a space where fortunes are made—or lost—in a matter of hours.
Betting on the NFL is more than just a weekend pastime for many—it’s an opportunity to win big. The world of high-stakes NFL betting has seen some jaw-dropping wagers over the years, with bettors staking millions in hopes of striking gold. These aren’t just casual bets; they represent the intersection of sports passion, financial risk, and sometimes sheer audacity. From underdog victories to iconic Super Bowl moments, NFL betting has created a space where fortunes are made—or lost—in a matter of hours. We always recommend looking through the different sports betting opportunities to explore a variety of options that can suit your interests and maximize your chances of success. Let’s dive into the top 5 largest NFL bets ever placed.
1. The Legendary Mattress Mack Wager – $3.46 Million
Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale has become somewhat of a sports betting legend. The Houston-based furniture mogul is known for placing massive bets on various sports, and the NFL is no exception. In 2021, he placed a $3.46 million bet on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to cover the spread in Super Bowl LV. His bet was part of a promotion for his furniture store, offering customers refunds if the Buccaneers won. The Bucs not only covered the spread but dominated the Kansas City Chiefs in a 31-9 victory, earning McIngvale one of the largest NFL betting payouts ever seen.
This wasn’t Mattress Mack’s first dance with high-stakes NFL betting. Over the years, he’s placed numerous multi-million-dollar wagers, blending his business savvy with a passion for sports. His strategy often involves using these colossal bets as marketing tools, making him a standout in the world of both business and sports wagering.
2. Billy Walters’ $3.5 Million Bet on Super Bowl XLIV
Billy Walters, a notorious figure in the world of sports betting, is known for his sharp instincts and bold wagers. In 2010, Walters reportedly placed a staggering $3.5 million bet on the New Orleans Saints to win Super Bowl XLIV. At the time, the Saints were underdogs against the Indianapolis Colts, led by the legendary Peyton Manning.
The Saints pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the Colts 31-17. Walters walked away with a massive profit from his bet, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful sports bettors of all time. Walters’ win was not just about luck—it was a testament to his years of experience in understanding odds and making calculated risks, a skill that separates casual bettors from professionals.
3. The Mystery Bettor Who Staked $2.3 Million on Super Bowl LIV
In 2020, a mystery bettor placed an enormous $2.3 million wager on the San Francisco 49ers to cover the spread in Super Bowl LIV. The 49ers were up against the Kansas City Chiefs in a highly anticipated matchup. For much of the game, it seemed like the 49ers were poised to secure the victory. However, the Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, made a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback to win 31-20, leaving the mystery bettor empty-handed.
This bet remains one of the largest losses in NFL betting history, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. Even with millions on the line and a seemingly safe bet, the tides can turn in an instant, especially in the NFL.
4. Floyd Mayweather’s $1.1 Million Bet on the Seattle Seahawks
Floyd “Money” Mayweather is no stranger to high-stakes gambling, frequently placing six-figure bets on various sports. In 2014, Mayweather wagered $1.1 million on the Seattle Seahawks to defeat the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII. Mayweather’s confidence in the Seahawks was well-placed, as Seattle demolished Denver 43-8, securing a massive payday for the undefeated boxing champion.
Mayweather’s bet on the Seahawks wasn’t just a show of his wealth—it highlighted his willingness to risk significant sums based on his understanding of sports matchups. This win further solidified his reputation as one of the most successful celebrity sports bettors.
5. Charles Barkley’s Infamous $500,000 Super Bowl Bet
NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley is known for his larger-than-life personality and love for gambling. Back in 2002, Barkley placed a $500,000 bet on the New England Patriots to win Super Bowl XXXVI against the heavily favored St. Louis Rams. According to Bitcointalk thread, the Patriots were 14-point underdogs, but Barkley’s faith in Tom Brady and the Patriots paid off in a big way. The Patriots pulled off a thrilling 20-17 upset, netting Barkley a significant profit.
Though $500,000 may seem small compared to the other bets on this list, the odds against the Patriots made this wager particularly impressive. Barkley’s bet remains one of the most talked-about moments in NFL betting history, proving that sometimes, even underdogs can come out on top in the most dramatic fashion.
Bottom Line
From Mattress Mack’s marketing-driven bets to Charles Barkley’s unforgettable Super Bowl wager, the largest NFL bets ever placed are stories of courage, risk, and occasionally, victory. Each of these bettors put immense sums on the line, and while some walked away with staggering profits, others were left with nothing but a lesson in the volatility of sports.
