First of all, NFL teams are required to grant their players four weeks off for the offseason. This will give them a break from the physical aspect of the job and time to relax and recharge their batteries. Some players use this time to recuperate from the season and take some much needed rest while others decide to spend their off time on their their off-field interests like training for their own business or participating in charity activities.
Players are also given a bye week during the regular season which usually falls around the mid-point of the NFL schedule. This week off provides opportunities for players to recover from wounds or injuries accumulated over the first few weeks of play. Additionally, they are allowed for the chance to step away from the grind of the season and detoxifying their bodies. This gives players more freedoms to focus on something else other than football for a short time, which is crucial for their mental and physical wellbeing.
Furthermore, teams are allowed to grant players with extended leaves and sabbaticals for personal reasons. Players like Tom Brady and Marshawn Lynch have taken these leaves to travel or explore other career opportunities. All that being said, it is possible for NFL players to get some sort of a break from their football careers.
But what happens when NFL players retire? Well, once a player decides to hang up their cleats, they’ll typically have the luxury of unlimited vacation days. Former NFL players usually take advantage of their newfound freedom to indulge in their own pursuits. Whether that’s family time, adventure-seeking or professional opportunities, many end up finding ways to make the most out of their retirement.
On top of that, the NFL Players Association provides plenty of resources to ensure players transition out of their professional football careers in the best possible way. They offer several programs and services to help former players adjust to life after the NFL and also provide jobs and various opportunities for them in the future.
Although I admit it can be hard for NFL players to find a balance between their professional and personal lives, it’s great to see that organizations, teams and the players themselves are doing their best to give them a little respite from their often grueling jobs. What do you think?