15 NFL Players Who Successfully Launched Their Own Businesses

Succeeding in the NFL requires grit, determination, and strategy. However, some athletes take it a step further by applying these traits to the business world, redefining the term “multi-talented.” Here are 15 football stars who excel on the field while also building impressive business empires.

With a Super Bowl win and multiple Pro Bowls, Russell Wilson excels beyond football. He co-owns the Seattle Sounders FC, founded West2East Empire,  a brand management company, and launched 3Brand, a sportswear line that combines sport, music, and fashion. His initiatives inspire people to improve and contribute back.

Michael Strahan has built a brand bigger than football, from sacking quarterbacks to hosting TV shows. The 6-time Pro Bowler and NFL legend co-hosts Good Morning America and The $100,000 Pyramid. His operations in fashion, dental products, and media have made him a prominent figure in entertainment.

As a seven-time Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady is no stranger to success. Off the field, he launched TB12, a wellness brand focused on fitness and nutrition, and founded 199 Productions, a media company. With partnerships like Under Armour, Brady’s business savvy is as sharp as his game-winning throws.

Larry Fitzgerald’s hands aren’t just for catching touchdowns. The future Hall of Famer has invested in tech startups and real estate while holding minority stakes in the Phoenix Suns. His on-field focus and vision have driven a thriving business career that makes his post-football legacy shine brighter than ever.

This fierce defensive lineman is just as strategic off the field. Ndamukong Suh has built an impressive portfolio with real estate undertakings and tech startup investments. His focus on affordable housing has earned him accolades as an award-winning developer, ensuring a lasting legacy beyond the NFL through thoughtful business decisions.

One of the NFL’s most accurate passers, Drew Brees, excels in entrepreneurship. He co-owns multiple Jimmy John’s franchises and has partnered with Dunkin’ to develop up to 69 locations in Louisiana. Brees co-founded Nine Brand, donating 9% of proceeds to charity, and invests in Everbowl, a superfood chain promoting healthy living.

Once a dominant tight end, Vernon Davis has successfully transitioned into the film world. He has worked on over 30 projects and founded production companies. Davis also launched V. Davis Wines, which reflects his interest in the same. His entrepreneurial spirit highlights his versatility and proves his success beyond the football field.

While Aaron Rodgers continues to impress on the field, his business enterprises are remarkable. He co-owns the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, invests in tech startups through Rx3 Ventures, and hosts a charity golf tournament. Additionally, he supports various causes through his foundation and appears in commercials for State Farm, Adidas, and Bose.

Lynch’s hard-nosed playing style earned him the nickname “Beast Mode,” an energy he carried into entrepreneurship. He launched the Beast Mode brand, which includes apparel and retail stores. He also has a long-standing partnership with Skittles and co-owns the Seattle Kraken, Oakland Panthers, and Oakland Roots SC. 

LaVar Arrington has diversified his portfolio through Leap Management LLC, a sports agency he founded in 2008 to represent NFL draft prospects. He also founded Xtreme Procision, a football training system. Additionally, he co-hosts the “Up On Game” Podcast and “2 Pros and a Cup of Joe” on FOX Sports Radio.

Recognized for his unique fashion sense, Newton launched his clothing line, MADE by Cam Newton. The former MVP also invests in real estate and holds stakes in various projects, including a minority investment in the UFC. Newton also co-owns 1conic Saga Productions and supports at-risk youth through the Cam Newton Foundation.

Two-time Super Bowl champion John Elway has excelled in business with John Elway Autos, which he sold for $82.5 million. His diverse portfolio includes 7 Cellars Winery, multiple Elway’s Steakhouse locations, and the NHL’s Seattle Kraken co-ownership. He also invests through Elway Capital and Tom’s Watch Bar.

Former linebacker Isaiah Kacyvenski has tackled the tech world with impressive endeavors. He co-founded MC10 Inc., which specializes in wearable technology, and launched Sports Innovation Lab to guide startups and investors. His venture capital firm, Will Ventures, invests in sports tech and health innovations.

Hall of Famer Charles Woodson has made a mark in the wine industry with Charles Woodson Wines, which includes the acclaimed Intercept label. He also launched Woodson Bourbon Whiskey, opened Jimmy John’s franchises, and founded the Charles Woodson Foundation to support education and youth programs that reflect his community commitment.

Four-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski co-founded Voomerang, a digital sweepstakes platform for charities. He launched Gronk Nation, a lifestyle brand, and Gronk Fitness, selling gym gear. His bestselling memoir and $1.2 million NFT collection highlight his success. Through the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation, he supports underprivileged youth.