Behind every NFL athlete is a person with dreams and ambitions beyond the game. These 20 players took on unique jobs outside of football—some before their rise to fame, others after retiring—showcasing how their talents extend far beyond the field.
Kurt Warner’s Grocery Store Days
Stacking shelves by night, Kurt Warner’s path to NFL stardom began humbly in a Hy-Vee grocery store in Iowa. He worked there after going undrafted in 1994. Can you imagine an MVP quarterback juggling cans and dreams?
Antonio Gates’ Basketball Aspirations
Basketball was Antonio Gates’ first love. Gates, a standout at Kent State, was denied an NBA career due to his size. Notably, he switched gears, using his agility and power to conquer the NFL as one of the greatest tight ends ever. What a pivot!
James Harrison’s Truck Driving Hustle
Before dominating offenses, James Harrison delivered goods across Ohio as a truck driver. This gritty job fueled his resilience. Working long hours and lifting heavy loads mirrored his relentless approach to football. His Super Bowl triumphs were hard-earned, on and off the field.
John Urschel’s Math Tutoring Mission
Few athletes have academic brilliance like John Urschel. As a Penn State player, he juggled tackling opponents and tutoring students in advanced mathematics. Later, after pursuing a Ph.D. at MIT, Urschel’s blend of intellectual and athletic prowess captivated fans beyond the gridiron.
Brandon Copeland’s Wall Street Experience
During NFL offseasons, Brandon Copeland traded football pads for suits. While playing for the Lions, he worked at UBS and learned the art of investing. How many linebackers can read markets and play defense? Copeland shows that brains and brawn coexist perfectly.
Joe Theismann’s Restaurant Journey
Behind every successful business is the same determination that drives athletic triumphs. Joe Theismann applied his competitive edge to his eponymous restaurant in Virginia. This Super Bowl champion proved his versatility extended far beyond the football field.
Pat Tillman’s Military Service
Heroism often defies expectations, and Pat Tillman exemplified this by leaving the NFL to serve his country after 9/11. Through his sacrifice, Tillman redefined courage and dedication, which reminded everyone that selflessness speaks louder than touchdowns.
Herschel Walker’s Bobsled Adventure
In 1992, Herschel Walker swapped cleats for snow and competed in the Winter Olympics as a bobsledder. As a representative of the United States, he displayed exceptional athleticism and helped his team finish in seventh place. His speed powered both fields and frozen tracks.
Vernon Davis’ Art Gallery Passion
Art was an outlet for Vernon Davis long before football fame found him. Nurturing his creativity, he opened Gallery 85 in San Jose to showcase contemporary works. This endeavor shattered stereotypes, proving NFL players can excel in pursuits far beyond the sidelines.
Ricky Williams’ Yoga Teaching Path
Yoga became Ricky Williams’ sanctuary after NFL retirement. A certified instructor, he emphasized mindfulness and balance. His classes attracted fans and athletes alike, eager to follow his holistic philosophy. Football may have built his fame, but yoga redefined his identity.
Nate Ebner’s Rugby Roots
An Olympian turned NFL player? Nate Ebner tackled global challenges as a rugby Olympian. Before his NFL success, Ebner competed internationally. Balancing both sports, he showed versatility and showed an athlete’s journey can crisscross continents and inspire millions.
Martellus Bennett’s Writing Dreams
Martellus Bennett’s creativity surged when he turned to children’s books. His works, like Hey A.J., It’s Saturday, showed his playful imagination. Football players often wield playbooks, but Bennett’s pen was just as mighty and crafted narratives entertaining young readers worldwide.
Chad Ochocinco’s Soccer Ambitions
By trying out for Sporting Kansas City in 2011, Chad Ochocinco surprised fans. Football remained his calling, but his soccer stint reflected sheer athleticism and a daring spirit. What NFL player could juggle soccer balls and touchdowns? Ochocinco kept fans guessing.
Joe Namath’s Acting Spotlight
Joe Namath wore many hats, including a cowboy hat on screen. Appearing in movies like C.C. and Company, Broadway Joe charmed audiences beyond football. His acting career revealed another side to the flamboyant quarterback and built his place as an all-American icon.
Tim Green’s Law Career Shift
Success knows no boundaries, and Tim Green proved this by excelling in the courtroom after football. As a practicing attorney, he brought the same strategic brilliance he used on the gridiron to the legal profession. Fans admired his intellect and resilience in this second act.
Andrew Hawkins’ Academic Pursuit
Andrew Hawkins pursued higher education at Columbia University while dazzling on NFL fields. A master’s degree in sports management proved he could combine academic and athletic excellence. As he balanced books with touchdowns, his intellect and dedication were truly remarkable.
Rashard Mendenhall’s Hollywood Storytelling
Life after football took Rashard Mendenhall in an unexpected direction—straight to Hollywood. A screenwriter for Ballers, he turned personal experiences into compelling stories and offered an authentic glimpse into the lives of professional athletes.
Justin Tucker’s Opera Elegance
Justin Tucker isn’t just an NFL kicker—he’s a performer in every sense of the word. With a flawless rendition of Ave Maria, Tucker showcased a vocal range as impressive as his game-winning kicks. The ability to combine sports and musical artistry amazed fans and reinforced his versatility.
Nnamdi Asomugha’s Acting Talent
Few NFL players transition to acting as seamlessly as Nnamdi Asomugha. Earning critical acclaim for his performance in Crown Heights, he demonstrated depth and talent on the silver screen. Asomugha’s journey inspired fans to pursue passions beyond the football field.
Michael Strahan’s Hosting Reign
Michael Strahan’s transition from NFL dominance to morning television stardom showcased his boundless charisma. As a co-host of Good Morning America, he became a familiar face in millions of homes. This proved that life after football can shine even brighter.
