Thoughts on NFL Player Transitions

With the close of another NFL season, and the retirement announcement from the G.O.A.T. and my former teammate Tom Brady, I've had lots of folks ask me about the experiences of NFL players as they transition out of the game of football.  

TB12 was one of the most feared quarterbacks of all time. His record-breaking stats are legendary, and his longevity in the NFL, 23 years vs. the average of 3.5 years (Gough, 2019), is unmatched. A leader on and off the field, his work ethic and dedication to the game were unparalleled and the G.O.A.T. has inspired generations of football players and fans.

As Senior Director at the NFLPA, I've had the chance to see thousands of players exit the National Football League. In addition, since conducting the research to complete and defend my doctoral dissertation, What is the lived experience of NFL players as they transition out of the NFL, I have had hundreds of engaging discussions about what the transition experience might be like and how to navigate.

The topic of transition out of sport has gathered a wide range of research but needs more public consideration. The literature has suggested that retirement from a professional sport is unlike traditional occupational retirement for several reasons, including the professional athlete’s unique status and public nature. (McKnight, Bernes, Gunn, Chorney, Orr, & Bardick, 2009). It can be easy to celebrate the athletic achievements of our biggest sports stars, applaud when their time on stage ends, and not consider the challenges or sense of loss that often comes from the end of an athletic career.  

My dissertation: The Journey Through No-Man’s Land:  A Phenomenological Study of NFL Free-Agent Players’ Transition Experience from Acitive NFL Player to Retired NFL Player was a qualitative study focused on NFL free-agent players who were in the middle of transitioning from the NFL. Download it here.  

At the encouragement of others, over the next few weeks, I will post the key findings from my study to raise awareness of the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges that can come from transitioning out of the NFL.  Please celebrate the great men playing this game as we close another NFL season. But also take a minute to consider the authentic experience of loss for those who may have just played their last down of professional football.