Mel Owens: Former NFL Linebacker, Lawyer, and The Golden Bachelor Season 2 Lead
Mel Owens has lived more than one lifetime; first as an NFL linebacker, then as a respected Lawyer, and now as the charming new lead of The Golden Bachelor Season 2. The 66-year-old former Los Angeles Rams player brings his competitive energy, quick wit, and emotional depth to ABC’s hit dating series, hoping to find love after loss. From the football field to the courtroom and now to reality TV, Mel’s story proves it’s never too late for a new chapter.
Who Is Mel Owens? Quick Facts
Mel is a former NFL linebacker, lawyer, and The Golden Bachelor Season 2 lead.
- Full Name: Mel Tyrae Owens
- Age: 66 years old (born December 7, 1958)
- Height: 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters)
- Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
- Current Residence: Newport Beach, California
- Occupation: Former NFL linebacker, Lawyer, and TV personality
- Ethnicity: African American
- Ex-Wife: Fabiana Pimentel
- Children: Lucas Owens and Andre Owens
- Net Worth: Estimated $2–5 million (2025)
Early Life and Education
Born in Detroit, Michigan, on December 7, 1958, Mel Owens grew up with grit, ambition, and a love for sports. His athletic talent earned him a scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he became a standout linebacker. In 1981, the Los Angeles Rams drafted him in the first round, launching an NFL career that would define his early years.
Mel Owens’ Parents: Walter and Janice Owens’ Legacy
Mel Owens was born into an inspiring and athletic family in Detroit, Michigan, where sports and education went hand in hand. His father, Walter Owens, played professional baseball in the mid-1950s for the Detroit Stars of the Negro American League, before dedicating his life to coaching high school baseball in Detroit. Walter’s passion for the game and commitment to mentoring young athletes left a lasting legacy in the city’s sports community.
Mel’s mother, Janice Owens, provided the steady foundation that kept the family grounded, supporting her husband’s career and raising their four children; Mel, Lamar, Kyle, and Stacia Owens.
When Mel’s father, Walter, passed away in 2020, he left behind not only his beloved wife Janice and their children but also a lasting impact on Detroit’s athletic and educational circles.
NFL & Football Career
Mel Owens played college football at the University of Michigan, where he became one of the team’s standout linebackers. In the 1981 NFL Draft, he was selected 9th overall by the Los Angeles Rams, beginning a strong professional career that spanned nine seasons from 1981 to 1989.
Throughout his NFL journey, Owens was known for his aggressive defense and leadership, finishing his career with 26.5 sacks and 4 interceptions. His transition from sports to law later became an inspiring story of reinvention.
Legal Career & Post-NFL Life
After retiring from the NFL, Mel Owens earned his law degree from UC Hastings College of the Law. He was later admitted to the California Bar and established himself as a respected attorney.
He co-founded Namanny, Byrne & Owens, a firm in Orange County specializing in sports injury, workers’ compensation, and disability benefits. Before becoming a lawyer, Owens also spent time working in finance and business, including a stint at Merrill Lynch.
Mel Owens’ Family: Ex-Wife and Children
Owens was previously married to Fabiana Pimentel Owens, his wife of over 25 years. Their marriage ended in divorce after filing in 2020, which was finalized around 2024.
The couple share two sons, Lucas Owens and Andre Owens, who are both young adults as of 2025. Owens has described fatherhood as his proudest role and says his sons inspired him to take another chance at love through The Golden Bachelor.
Height
Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall, the NFL star and Golden Bachelor season 2 lead, Mel, commands attention wherever he goes. His athletic build, warm smile, and calm confidence give him an effortlessly magnetic presence.
The Golden Bachelor Season 2
ABC selected Mel Owens as the lead for The Golden Bachelor Season 2, following Gerry Turner’s success in Season 1. Viewers will see Mel balance vulnerability with strength as he meets 20 women ready to find lasting love. “Love doesn’t expire,” Mel said in the Season 2 promo. “It just matures.”
Filmed in California, the new season highlights Mel’s humor, compassion, and genuine curiosity about life and relationships. Fans are already praising him online for his authenticity and old-school charm.
The women vying for Mel’s heart in The Golden Bachelor season 2 include Robin Rocha, Peg Munson, Nicolle Briscoe, Gerri Flowers, Debbie Siebers, Cindy Cullers, Cheryl Steele, and Carol Freeman-Branstine.
Who Does Mel The Golden Bachelor Pick?
As of now, Mel Owens has not revealed his final choice on The Golden Bachelor Season 2. The season is still underway, and fans are eagerly waiting to see which woman captures his heart in the finale. Viewers can keep up with each week’s episode to see how Mel’s romantic journey unfolds.
Mel Owens’ Job and Career Today
Mel continues to manage his law practice in Newport Beach, representing clients across California while also speaking at events about career reinvention and mental health after sports. He’s active in alumni programs at the University of Michigan and supports youth mentorship initiatives in his community.
Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Mel Owens’ net worth ranges between $3 million and $5 million. His income comes from decades in the NFL, legal practice, and recent television appearances. His business acumen and steady legal career have kept him financially grounded long after football.
Mel Owens’ Instagram handle is @melowens58.
FAQs
1. How old is Mel Owens?
He is 66 years old, born on December 7, 1958.
2. How tall is Mel Owens?
He stands 6 feet 2 inches tall.
3. Who is Mel Owens’ ex-wife?
Owens was married to Fabiana Pimentel Owens for over two decades before their divorce was finalized in 2024.
4. Does Mel Owens have children?
Yes. Mel has two sons, Lucas and Andre, whom he raised in California.
5. What does Mel Owens do for a living now?
Mel is an attorney and co-founder of a law firm in Orange County specializing in sports injury and disability cases.
7. What team did Mel Owens play for in the NFL?
Mel played for the Los Angeles Rams for nine seasons from 1981 to 1989.
8. What is Mel Owens’ ethnicity?
He is African American.
9. What is Mel Owens’ net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $2–5 million in 2025.