What Happens to NFL Players After They Retire?

Learn about the post-career lives of NFL players and what happens to them after they retire from the league.

Introduction

In the National Football League (NFL), the average playing career lasts just over three years. For many players, their time in the league is even shorter. So what happens to these athletes after they hang up their cleats?

For some, the transition out of professional football is relatively seamless. They have already established other careers, whether in business or broadcasting, and they are able to smoothly transition into these new roles. Others find the transition to be more difficult. They may have trouble finding new employment, or they may struggle with mental health issues that can be exacerbated by the abrupt end to their playing days.

Many former NFL players also suffer from chronic physical pain, due to the injuries they sustained during their careers. This can make it hard for them to remain active and engaged in life after football. Some players are able to manage this pain through medication or therapy, but others find themselves relying on painkillers or other drugs just to get through the day.

The transition out of professional football can be tough for many players, but there are resources available to help them make the adjustment. The NFL has a player engagement program that offers counseling and support for players as they exit the league. There are also numerous charities and nonprofit organizations that provide financial assistance, job training, and other services to former NFL players in need.

Financial Struggles

Many retired NFL players face financial struggles after their career ends. In a recent study,78% of former NFL players said they have gone through financial difficulties in retirement, and 60% said they are not currently financially stable.

One reason for this is that NFL contracts are not fully guaranteed. In fact, only the signing bonus and a small portion of the base salary is guaranteed for most players. So if a player is released before their contract is up, they may not receive all the money they were expecting.

Another reason retired players may struggle financially is because their careers are relatively short. The average NFL career lasts just 3.3 years, so many players don’t have time to save up for life after football.

Finally, medical expenses can also be a burden for retired players. In the same study mentioned above,50% of respondents said they had experienced significant health problems since retiring from the NFL. These problems can lead to high medical bills, which can further strain finances.

Health Concerns

After years of playing football, many NFL players are left with serious health concerns. These can include injuries to the brain, spine, and other parts of the body. These injuries can lead to long-term problems, including chronic pain, headaches, memory loss, and depression.

In some cases, these problems can be so severe that players are unable to live normal lives after they retire. Many players have had to go on disability, or even file for bankruptcy.

The NFL has been criticized for not doing enough to help players after they retire. Some former players have filed lawsuits against the league, alleging that the NFL knew about the risks of brain injury but did not do enough to protect players.

Family Issues

Family issues are often a source of stress for NFL players after they retire. Many players are married with children, and they may have to deal with the challenges of being a single parent or dealing with a spouse who is no longer employed. In some cases, players may have to move away from their families in order to pursue new careers.

Depression and Substance Abuse

Depression and substance abuse are common among NFL retirees. According to a recent study, nearly one in six retired NFL players suffers from depression. The study also found that those who suffer from depression are more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs.

Retired NFL players are also at increased risk for suicide. In fact, the rate of suicide among retired NFL players is four times higher than the general population.

There are a number of possible explanations for the high rates of depression and substance abuse among NFL retirees. First, the physical demands of playing football can take a toll on the body, leading to pain and injuries that can last long after a player retires. Second, retirement can be a major life transition, and many players struggle to adjust to life after football. Third, the competitive nature of football can make it difficult for players to cope with not being able to play anymore. Finally, the financial challenges that many retirees face can add to the stress of retirement.

Life After Football

For many NFL players, life after football is a time to relax, enjoy retirement and pursue other interests. For others, it’s a time to give back to the game by coaching or working in front office positions.

Some players have used their platform and visibility to become well-known broadcasters, while others have opened up successful businesses. There are also those who have taken on philanthropic roles, using their stature to give back to causes they’re passionate about.

There are endless possibilities for life after football, and many players find fulfilling experiences by pursuing multiple interests. Whatever players choose to do after their playing days are over, they’ll always be remembered for the contributions they made on the field.