Former NFL Players and Their Post-Retirement Challenges: A Revealing Study
A recent study sheds light on the reality of former NFL players who are at retirement age, revealing a landscape with more shadows than expected. The research, conducted by ESPN and KFF, highlights the high prevalence of physical and mental health problems among these retired athletes. The study’s results, which surveyed former players from the 1988 season, show that these men are more likely to experience chronic pain, disabilities, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline compared to the general male population of their age. Despite these challenges, a large majority of former players expressed that they would make the decision to play professional American football again. This finding highlights the complexity of athletes’ experiences and their deep connection to the sport.Key Findings of the Study
- Almost all former players reported feeling pain in the last three months, with half experiencing it daily.
- Three-quarters indicated that the pain limited their work and personal activities.
- Almost half reported “serious difficulties” concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
- 15% of the players were diagnosed with dementia.
- Approximately half reported feeling depressed in the last 12 months.
- Six out of ten players live with some type of disability.
The Perspective of Former Players
Others pointed out the lifetime opportunities offered by a career in the NFL, including money, fame, and social standing. Those who wouldn’t play again expressed anger and regret, citing multiple surgeries and mental health problems. Some mentioned mental health issues: “I ruined two great relationships and have had problems with my children, as my bad temper and memory loss make it difficult for me to have a coherent conversation. My quality of life sucks, I’m just sitting here waiting to die.” Another player said he had undergone surgeries on both hips, both knees, and “an unknown number of concussions”.Many mentioned the “childhood dream” and “camaraderie” as reasons to return to play.
Anonymous Player
I think my wife is almost at her limit with me because I am not the same person she met over 30 years ago. Don’t get me wrong, my life isn’t as bad as it could be, and for that I am grateful.
Anonymous Player
Although most players were satisfied with their financial situation, a minority reported delays in medical care due to costs and lack of medical insurance. 20% of the players reported having delayed medical care at least once in the last year due to cost, and 40% reported not having insurance at some point since they stopped playing professional football.
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The NFL’s Stance
An NFL spokesperson highlighted the league’s efforts to fund health and wellness programs, through the collective bargaining agreement with the NFL Players Association. The league also mentioned efforts to support former players through the NFL Legends Community and measures to make the game safer. The NFL reported 182 concussions last season, 17% fewer than the previous season and the lowest figure since it began collecting data in 2015. The NFLPA also highlighted programs such as the Professional Athletes Foundation and the association’s Former Players Services department, which provide support to former players.Opinions on Youth American Football
The study also explored players’ opinions on youth American football. Around six out of ten players encouraged their children to play American football, including almost half who said the sport had a negative impact on their physical and mental health.Professional Athletes Foundation
