Mel Owens is a retired American NFL linebacker turned sports attorney, now stepping into the spotlight as the lead of ABC’s The Golden Bachelor Season 2, which premiered on September 24, 2025. Best known for his nine-year run with the Los Angeles Rams from 1981 to 1989, Owens built a second career as a sports injury attorney in California. After a long NFL career, law practice, and a high-profile divorce, he is looking for love again on reality TV.
Mel Owens Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Mel Tyrae Owens |
| Date of Birth | December 7, 1958 |
| Age | 66 years (as of 2025) |
| Profession | Retired NFL Linebacker, Sports Attorney, TV Personality |
| Hometown | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Current Residence | Orange County, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
Physical Details
| Height | 6’4” (193 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 230 lbs (104 kg) |
| Eye Color | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hair Color | Gray |
Mel Owens Early Life
Mel Owens was born in Detroit, Michigan, on December 7, 1958. His father, Walter Owens, was a professional baseball player with the Detroit Stars in the Negro American League before becoming a coach. In the ninth grade, Mel moved with his family to DeKalb, Illinois, when his father took a coaching job at Northern Illinois University.
At DeKalb High School, Mel became a three-sport athlete, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. He earned nine varsity letters and was named MVP of the basketball team in 1975. His physicality and leadership marked him early as a standout athlete destined for bigger stages.
Mel Owens Education
Owens attended DeKalb High School before moving on to the University of Michigan in 1976. He played under legendary coach Bo Schembechler, transitioning from safety to linebacker. By 1979, he was a starter and had notable performances, including a standout game against Michigan State.
After completing his undergraduate degree, Owens pursued a law education and later became a licensed attorney in California.
Mel Owens Family
Mel Owens was married to Fabiana Pimentel Owens for over 25 years. Their marriage ended in a lengthy and contentious divorce finalized in December 2024. Together, they have two sons:
- Andre Owens – A standout baseball player at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, committed to play at Oklahoma State University.
- Lucas Owens – Graduated in 2025 and plans to play baseball at the University of Michigan, following his father’s footsteps.
Despite the divorce, Owens remains close to his sons and supportive of their athletic careers.
Mel Owens Career
NFL Career
Owens was selected 9th overall in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. He went on to play nine seasons (1981–1989), appearing in 136 games, recording 26 sacks and 4 interceptions. He helped the Rams reach the NFC Championship Games in 1985 and 1989.
Legal Career
After injuries ended his NFL career, Owens became a lawyer. In 2006, he co-founded Namanny, Byrne & Owens, a law firm specializing in workers’ compensation and sports-related injury cases. He represents athletes and professionals navigating post-career challenges.
Reality TV
In 2025, Owens became the star of The Golden Bachelor Season 2, meeting 23 women between the ages of 58 and 77, seeking love later in life.
Career Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
| Michigan Wolverines | Played 1976–1980, starter in 1979 |
| NFL Draft | 1st Round, 9th overall (1981, Los Angeles Rams) |
| Rams Career | 9 seasons, 136 games, 26 sacks |
| NFC Championships | 1985 & 1989 appearances |
| Law Firm | Co-founded Namanny, Byrne & Owens (2006) |
| Golden Bachelor | Lead, Season 2 (2025) |
Mel Owens Net Worth
- Estimated Net Worth: $2.75 million
- Annual Income: $300,000–$500,000 (law practice)
- Main Sources: Law firm earnings, sports-related cases, media appearances
His wealth includes real estate holdings in Orange County, California, and earnings from both his legal and NFL careers. His Golden Bachelor role adds a new layer of exposure and potential endorsements.
Mel Owens Controversies
Owens has faced scrutiny both professionally and personally. His divorce proceedings (2020–2024) were highly publicized, ending with nearly $1 million in settlements.
In 2025, he also drew criticism for remarks about not wanting to date women “over 60 if they look 60,” sparking ageism debates. Owens later apologized, saying he seeks a partner who is “honest, loving, fit, and full of life.”
Mel Owens is trying to make up for his insensitive comments about age as filming for "The Golden Bachelor" Season 2 gets underway — revealing he apologized to all the ladies on the first night of shooting.
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 1, 2025
Read more: https://t.co/tTVb5bv7cl pic.twitter.com/Jf7HxQWYYA
Mel Owens Recent Updates
- Golden Bachelor Debut: Season 2 premiered on September 24, 2025 on ABC, featuring Owens meeting 23 women aged 58–77.
- Divorce Resolution: Finalized in December 2024, ending a five-year battle with nearly $1 million in settlements.
- Public Apology: In April 2025, Owens apologized for age-related dating remarks at Hulu’s “Get Real” event.
- Sons’ Careers: Andre committed to Oklahoma State baseball; Lucas plans to play at Michigan.
- Law Firm Legacy: Still practicing at Namanny, Byrne & Owens, focusing on athlete injury cases.
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