San Francisco 49ers safety Ji'Ayir Brown recently visited a New Jersey electric vehicle dealership, intending to purchase a Tesla Cybertruck. However, his trusted financial adviser dissuaded him from proceeding with the purchase.
Brown, entering his second NFL season after making it to the Super Bowl as a rookie last season, was keen on buying a Cybertruck priced around $200,000, a significant markup over the vehicle's selling price. He even test-drove the truck and praised its ride and features.
Negotiations began with the price initially set at $230,000 and later slightly reduced to $210,000. That prompted Brown to consult with his financial adviser.
After a quick phone call, Brown told the seller, "It's not in the cards right now."
The video documenting Brown's dealership visit has since gone viral on TikTok.
According to OverTheCap.com, during his rookie season, Brown earned a $750,000 base salary alongside a $924,220 signing bonus. He is slated to receive a base salary of $945,264 in 2024.
Each 49ers player earned bonuses totaling $258,000 for their postseason run, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance. This was more than enough to cover the cost of the vehicle Brown was eyeing.
In retrospect, passing on the truck was probably a smart financial move, considering the dealership initially asked for an approximate 130 percent markup over the highest suggested retail value of the vehicle. The Cybertruck's demand has far outpaced its supply, allowing dealerships like the one in New Jersey to ask for more from interested customers.