Reports: Ex-NFL star Bill Romanowski owes $15.5 million in unpaid taxes

A federal judge in California has ruled that former NFL linebacker Bill Romanowski and his wife owe $15.5 million in unpaid taxes, according to multiple outlets, including Sportico.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter H. Kang issued a recommendation on the case brought forth by the U.S. Department of Justice in 2023, ruled that Bill and his wife, Julie, owe $15.5 million in unpaid tax assessments to go along with accrued interest. The DOJ accused the Romanowskis of not paying their owed taxes for the years 1998-2004 as well as 2007.

The couple's company, Nutrition 53, already a subject of a separate bankruptcy case, could be held liable to contribute paying to the judgment, with the government bringing claims that the company is an alter ego for the Romanowskis, not distinct enough to be protected.

Likewise, the government is pursuing payment from other assets associated with the couple.

A two-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champ, Romanowski, 58, was originally a third-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 1988, playing 16 seasons for the 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos and Oakland Raiders.

Romanowski totaled 1,118 tackles, 39 ½ sacks and 18 interceptions over 243 career games.

Nutrition 53 is a protein/supplement company.

--Field Level Media