Lance Rentzel: Where Is The NFL Star Today?

03 May, 2025

Where did the golden boy of the gridiron go? The tale of Thomas Lance Rentzel is one of soaring heights and crushing falls, a career defined by both athletic prowess and personal turmoil, and a life that continues to intrigue long after his time on the field.

Thomas Lance Rentzel, born on October 14, 1943, in Queens, New York, etched his name into the annals of professional football as a talented and successful wide receiver. His journey took him through the demanding landscape of the National Football League (NFL), where he showcased his skills for the Minnesota Vikings, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Los Angeles Rams. Rentzel's career, spanning from 1965 to 1975, was punctuated by moments of brilliance, earning him recognition and admiration from fans and peers alike.

Rentzel's early foray into the world of football began at the University of Oklahoma, where he honed his athletic abilities. He was a star running back before being converted to a receiver in his third season by the Dallas Cowboys. This versatility would prove to be a cornerstone of his professional success, allowing him to excel in various offensive roles. His time with the Cowboys, particularly, marked a period of significant achievement. The team knew what they were getting when they traded for him in May 1967, and he did not disappoint. His skills caught the attention of the masses, and for a time he had it all.

Category	Details
Full Name	Thomas Lance Rentzel
Date of Birth	October 14, 1943
Place of Birth	Queens, New York
Height	Not publicly available
Weight	202 lbs (91 kg)
College	University of Oklahoma
NFL Teams	Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams
Position	Flanker / Wide Receiver
Years Active	1965-1975
Pro Bowls	2
Marital Status	Divorced from Joey Heatherton
Current Residence	Dallas, TX
Net Worth (Estimated)	$1 million
Career after Football	Advertising
Reference	Pro Football Reference

Rentzel's professional career was marked by impressive performances, with the Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams, in particular, benefiting from his offensive contributions. He was selected to two Pro Bowls, a testament to his skill and impact on the game. The ability to catch a pass and move the ball was an important skill that he possessed.

However, Rentzel's journey took an unexpected turn that has continued to intrigue fans. The events that followed his retirement from the sport were a dramatic contrast to the achievements on the field. These events led to his separation from the league and affected many aspects of his personal life.

In April 1969, Rentzel married Joey Heatherton, a well-known actress, in New York City. Their union was a prominent event, but it ultimately proved to be short-lived. The couple divorced, a poignant reminder of how life can sometimes take unforeseen paths. In September of the following year, Joey filed for divorce, which was finalized in 1972.

The later years of Rentzel's life have seen him pursue a career in advertising, a testament to his ability to reinvent himself. This transition brought him to Los Angeles, California, where he continues to reside today. In a twist of fate, he now lives in the entertainment capital of the world. His story is a compelling narrative of adaptation and resilience, as he carved out a new path for himself outside the realm of professional sports.

Rentzels life, however, was not without its tribulations. In November 1970, Rentzel faced legal troubles after an incident of indecent exposure involving a child. He pleaded guilty to the charge and promised to seek psychiatric help. These events, coupled with the divorce from his wife, marked a low point in his life and led to his suspension from the NFL. The impact of these issues resonated throughout his personal life and tarnished what was once a promising career.

There are five interesting facts about Lance Rentzel:

Rentzel was a former NFL flanker who played for three teams from 1965 to 1975.
He was selected to two Pro Bowls, showcasing his skill and impact on the game.
He retired after two incidents of indecent exposure involving children, which led to his divorce and suspension from the league.
After his retirement from football, Rentzel established a successful career in advertising.
Today, he resides in Dallas, TX after spending several years in the Washington, D.C.

Despite the challenges he faced, Rentzel's story is a complex mix of athletic prowess and personal struggles. The public continues to follow his journey. His story has been a rollercoaster of triumph and adversity, a tale that continues to resonate with fans who remember the "golden boy" of the NFL. The question, where is Lance Rentzel today? remains a persistent one for many.

San Antoniothe Dallas Cowboys knew what they were getting when they traded for Lance Rentzel in May 1967. The courage and humility it took for him to later write an autobiography, especially so soon after the events themselves, is a testament to his character. He played or coached in a record nine super bowls, including four losses as a head coach. He also coached the New York Giants.

Rentzel's story serves as a reminder of the human element behind the glitz and glamour of professional sports. It shows how even the most gifted individuals can experience unforeseen challenges. His story illustrates that the human story is often filled with complications and surprises.

The events surrounding Rentzels life have fueled ongoing discussions, highlighting the complexities of success, failure, and the enduring allure of the human story. His journey, from the gridiron to the advertising world, continues to capture attention, and the legacy of Lance Rentzel remains a compelling chapter in the history of the NFL.

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