Nnamdi Asomugha
During his playing career, the Los Angeles native spent his college days in Berkeley before enjoying a very successful run in the pros. The 3-time Pro Bowler wasn’t the fastest athlete — though he paired terrific length and size for the position — along with immense mental brilliance. In total, Asomugha had a run in which he was considered to be one of the league’s best corners. After a 10-year career, Asomugha called it quits. What has he been doing since?
Since retiring from the NFL, Asomugha has gone full bore into the world of entertainment. He’s acted in/produced a number of projects — including Beasts of No Nation, Crown Heights, and Friday Night Lights. A rabid philanthropist, Asomugha runs a number of organizations — both within the United States and his parents’ native Nigeria — where he aims to give educational opportunities to those who may not normally have the chance to pursue those endeavors. Asomugha is also married to famed actress Kerry Washington (the couple have two children).
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Champ Bailey
Champ Bailey is undoubtedly one of the top five corners to ever play the game. It makes sense — since the 12-time Pro Bowler learned from under arguably the two-best in Deion Sanders and Darrell Green. Bailey was immensely competitive — using elite athletic ability with transcendent instinctual prowess. He could diagnose the route tree before receivers even got out of their breaks. From there, he’d make a beeline for the intended target. This resulted usually in a pass-breakup or an interception.
In 2019, it was no surprise to find out that Bailey was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A few years earlier, Bailey married his longtime girlfriend in a lavish ceremony in Newport Beach, Calif. Even more exciting, Bailey is a doting father to his son, Keevan. Keevan Bailey also plays as a cornerback (like his famous dad). The younger Bailey was a member of the Colorado State Rams football team. Earlier this season, he entered the transfer portal. His whereabouts currently as a football player are unknown.
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Jeremy Shockey
Shockey was a talented yet volatile tight end. You were always going to get fireworks with the Oklahoma native — whether on the field or after the game for a sound byte. After starring for the Hurricanes in Miami, much of Shockey’s professional career included playing with the New York Giants. The 4-time Pro Bowler helped the Giants win two Super Bowls. He was a massive part in the success of the franchise, namely due to his toughness and athleticism over the middle of the field.
Shockey has enjoyed a quiet post-NFL career since retiring in 2011. The Oklahoma native has taken to travel, and not just in the continental United States. As documented on his personal Instagram account, Shockey has traveled all over the world — from Israel to Panama. By the looks of his IG account, Shockey also appears to be an avid fisherman during his free time.
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Tiki Barber
Tiki Barber seemingly had a very underrated career in the NFL before retiring at a relatively young age. He along with his twin brother Ronde entered the NFL from the University of Virginia. A versatile back with the ability to play all three downs, Barber accrued three-straight Pro Bowl appearances. This coincided with Barber notching 1,000-yard seasons in six out of seven years. In the process, the dynamic rusher became one of the franchise’s all-time greats from the RB spot.
Barber retired quite abruptly by age 31. His main goal was to get into television — which he did for quite some time. Barber was involved on broadcast shows in both the sports and political realms. Currently, Barber is a radio host for CBS Sports. Away from the journalism world, Barber also spent time on a number of different television shows (Iron Chef America, Project Runway, Chopped, Orange is the New Black). Now on his second marriage, Barber has six children in total.
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Trent Dilfer
Dilfer was a journeyman quarterback for majority of his career. While not an elite talent, Dilfer managed to grind his way through. He put himself in a position to succeed as a QB who took care of the ball. When Baltimore had its historic defensive season which culminated in a Super Bowl, it was Dilfer leading the charge as the starting signal-caller. The California native spent parts of 14 seasons in the NFL (five teams). What has Dilfer been up to since leaving the game as a player?
Since retiring, Dilfer has mostly been visible as an analyst — both on television and in radio. Dilfer worked for ESPN for a long time as one of the primary guys talking football. Since then, he’s moved into a part-time role as an analyst for FOX Sports. Interestingly enough, Dilfer also left the state of California to become a high school football coach. He is the head coach for Lipscomb Academy in Nashville. One of his players is Beau Dawson — the son of former NFL kicker Phil Dawson.
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Patrick Surtain
The ’90’s featured a number of lockdown corners. Among the cream of the proverbial crop sat Patrick Surtain. He wasn’t a highly sought-after prospect when coming out of Ole Miss. However, Surtain beat all the odds en route to three-straight Pro Bowl appearances for the Dolphins. This even included a First Team All-Pro denotation, as well as Second Team All-Pro honors. Known for his prowess as a physical ball-hawking defensive back, he passed on those skills to another player (who coincidentally bears his name).
Surtain became a high school football coach in South Florida. Among his best-ever players, you’d find his son, Patrick Surtain II. The younger Surtain has a far different profile than his daddy. The elder Surtain was shorter and more compact as a player. The younger iteration has every physical trait one would want in the perfect prospect. He stands 6-foot-2 with long arms and terrific speed. After earning a scholarship to the University of Alabama (under his dad’s tutelage), the younger Surtain was drafted No. 9 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos.
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Joe Horn
We all remember Joe Horn and his antics on the football field. He played the game with tons of energy and entertainment. Whenever the Saints were in primetime, Horn’s game seemingly jumped up another level. Perhaps his most noteworthy on-field performance came when he hid a cellphone under the goalpost, and then celebrated with it after scoring a touchdown. People forget the perseverance Horn demonstrated in making the NFL. Coming from the JUCO ranks, Horn worked as a waiter while playing for (now) two defunct Canadian Football League teams. Ultimately, he made it to the Saints — where he earned four Pro Bowl appearances.
The father of six children, Horn decided to stay in the game of football once his playing career ended. He’s been the WR coach for Northeast Mississippi Community College for the last few years. Interestingly enough, one of his children — Jaycee — broke the mold and became the one thing Horn despised most…a standout cornerback. After starring at the University of South Carolina, Horn’s son was drafted No. 8 Overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2021 NFL Draft.
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Arian Foster
Few NFL players hail from the state of New Mexico. Even fewer of them become All-Pro athletes. This description encapsulates Arian Foster in a nutshell. After a ho-hum college career at Tennessee, Foster entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent. Though he was a bigger back, there were questions revolving around his top-end speed, short-area quickness, and toughness. All of those concerns quickly dissipated as a second-year player (when he became a starter for the Texans). Foster accrued four seasons with at least 1,200 rushing yards. In the process, he also developed into a legitimate pass-catching threat out of the backfield. To this day, he holds a number of all-time records — four NFL records and four franchise records for the Texans. Among them, Foster became the first player in NFL history to rush for at least 100 yards in each of his first three playoff games.
Foster has dabbled in a number of different fields since leaving the NFL a few years ago. The 35-year-old now raps under the pseudonym Bobby Feno. A docuseries was also created which showed Foster’s transition into the music realm. Interestingly enough, LeBron James produced both endeavors. In addition to his musical pursuits, Foster also co-hosts a podcast on the Barstool Sports Network.
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Daryl ‘Moose’ Johnston
We all know about the Cowboys’ dynastic period during the 1990’s. The names of Aikman, Smith, and Irvin usually take center stage when discussing the group as a whole. However, one of the more important figures often going under-the-radar is Daryl ‘Moose’ Johnson. The fullback hailing from New York was a monster on special teams and when it came to opening up holes for Smith in the run game. With Johnston’s ability to carry the football, he even got touches on a gamely basis (which led to 22 career TDs and two Pro Bowl appearances). He was also a major threat coming out of the backfield in the passing game.
An affable and popular character, it only made sense for Moose to enter the world of television. He’s been a color commentator on FOX for over a decade — often providing sound and thoughtworthy analysis. Married with two children, Johnston has since taken on an enhanced role in the world of football. He was named as the Director of Player Personnel for the XFL’s Dallas Renegades franchise. The coach of this team is none other than former OU head man Bob Stoops.
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Charles Haley
You guys remember Charles Haley, right? He was a monster hybrid outside linebacker/defensive linemen during the ’80’s and ’90’s for both the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers. Over the course of his decorated career, Haley notched over 100 sacks and helped his teams win five Super Bowls. At the height of his career, few matched Haley when it came to power, athleticism, effort, and unadulterated intensity. He is a massive reason for why the OLB/DE spot is such a valued commodity in the current landscape of the NFL. Haley set the scene for guys such as Justin Houston, DeMarcus Ware, and Von Miller to follow in his footsteps.
Since retiring from football, Haley has dedicated his life to helping those in need — particularly in the greater Dallas area. He started an organization called Tackle Tomorrow Foundation — which promotes youth literacy in the city of Dallas. Haley is also in the midst of organizing an event in which over 2,000 meals will be distributed at schools for children coming from impoverished backgrounds.
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DeMeco Ryans
Nick Saban took over Alabama’s program just as Ryans made his way into the NFL. It was a shame the two never got a chance to work with one another. Saban’s penchant for the defensive side of the ball — coupled with Ryans’ entire package — would’ve been a match made in heaven. Ryan was an all-SEC/All American performer from the linebacker spot. Drafted in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Ryans spent a decade in the NFL before calling it quits. He was a player praised constantly for both his character and high football I.Q. Unsurprisingly enough, he parlayed those traits into an elevated career within the sport…
Right as his playing career ended, the 37-year-old was hired by the San Francisco 49ers as an assistant coach. He’s been with the franchise ever since — moving from inside linebackers coach to defensive coordinator (the position he currently holds). Without a doubt, Ryans is one of the most talented up-and-coming coordinators in the sport. It’s only a matter of time until he finds himself as the head coach of an NFL program. Living in the Bay Area, Ryans is married with three children.
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Ricky Williams
Ricky Williams is famous — or infamous — for a number of reasons. The San Diego native was a fantastic prospect coming out of Texas. Mike Ditka decided to trade a boatload of picks in order to bring Williams to New Orleans (which also featured a weird magazine cover of Williams/Ditka as bride and groom). Williams was a solid player — though never lived up to the unfair hype placed upon his shoulders. Much of his professional success did come later as a member of the Miami Dolphins (when he led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns in 2002). Williams did have a number of off-the-field issues despite registering five 1,000-yard seasons. Where is he now?
Williams is a fascinating guy. To this day, he’s still learning ardently about religion, existentialism, and promoting the benefits of cannabis. He’s also been very open in speaking about some of the social anxiety disorders he has. In 2021, news broke about a biopic which would be created on Williams and his experience in Australia. As one recalls, he left the NFL randomly to spend a year backpacking around the country. This story — led by Academy Award-winning director Rodney Rothman — will be shared with everyone.
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Antonio Cromartie
Cromartie was a freak athlete — both on the football field and in the realm of track. He’s one of those Florida standouts that scouts drooled over. Cromartie had elite speed, terrific size, and the ball skills needed to be a standout corner on the next level. After his career at Florida State finished, Cromartie spent 10 years in the NFL — four of which ended with him being named to the Pro Bowl. Cromartie even had a year in which he picked off 10 (!) passes in one season for the Chargers. Since retiring, has Cromartie continued to be involved in the sport?
Cromartie is a very busy man as it pertains to his family. He reportedly has 14 children with eight different women. The Cromarties was a reality show on television which showcased him and his family. Even crazier, reports insist that Cromartie had four children even after having a vasectomy. As of 2021, Cromartie is currently a defensive grad assistant for the Texas A&M football team.
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Rae Carruth
We all know the story of Rae Carruth. The former Carolina Panthers receiver was a first-round pick out of Colorado. After a few underwhelming seasons in the NFL, Carruth was ultimately arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder when his then-pregnant girlfriend was shot and killed. After 18 years in jail, Carruth was released in 2018. The baby his ex-girlfriend was carrying miraculously survived. Now 21 years of age, Chancellor Carruth was raised by his grandmother. Where is Carruth today now that he’s out of prison?
Rumors circulated that Carruth may return to his native California in order to become a barber. He earned a licensure for cutting hair in prison. Taking full responsibility for what had previously occurred, Carruth penned a letter to his son’s grandmother — thanking her for taking care of his son. As of 2018, Carruth is reportedly living in the state of Pennsylvania. There’s no word on whether he’s been able to see his son — nor broker some sort of relationship.
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Bill Romanowski
Romanowski was one of the most physical and feared linebackers in the game. When patrolling the field for the Denver Broncos, his play at times bordered on psychotic. He wasn’t afraid to launch into ball carriers with massive hits. He’d stick his facemask in your grill, and would be quite boisterous in doing so. He won four Super Bowls during his illustrious career, and also made two Pro Bowls. Even after his playing career ended, Romanowski still stayed pretty relevant…
As we later found out, Romanowski admitted to taking steroids during his playing days. He’s been transparent and open about the usage. Additionally, Romanowski has dipped his toes into a number of different avenues. He was his son’s defensive coordinator on the high school football level for a spell. Additionally, Romanowski has appeared in a number of Adam Sandler films (The Benchwarmers, The Longest Yard, Blended, Jack & Jill). Most recently, he also made an appearance on a VICE docuseries speaking about the unsavory side of the NFL.
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Drew Bledsoe
The former Washington State gunslinger is the $103 million-dollar man who was replaced by Tom Brady. Of course, Bledsoe’s career is more illustrious compared to that footnote — but it’s a noteworthy thing to remember regardless. Bledsoe represented the archetype quarterback who was statuesque in the pocket, yet possesses an extremely strong arm. The 4-time Pro Bowler won a Super Bowl, and routinely made plays downfield. Since retiring, what has Bledsoe been up to?
Bledsoe has been keeping busy since retiring more than a decade ago. He’s since left the East Coast in favor of returning to his native Pacific Northwest. Living in central Oregon, Bledsoe created a very successful wine business nearly 15 years ago. To this day, it continues to produce award-winning products. When he’s not running a successful winery/business, he’s coaching his son’s high school team (as the offensive coordinator). Bledsoe is married and has four children in total.
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DeMarco Murray
DeMarco Murray was a monster running back prospect from Las Vegas. Having his pick of virtually any school, he opted to play for the Oklahoma Sooners. After a very productive college career, the Dallas Cowboys nabbed him in the third round. Murray’s most noteworthy season came in 2014 — when he rushed a whopping 392 times for 1,845 yards and 13 touchdowns. Despite making three Pro Bowls, this was by far the best season of his career. After playing in parts of seven seasons, Murray retired after the wear and tear of the position became too much.
Much of Murray’s post-NFL career has revolved around giving back to the youth. He started a program which highlights the benefits of clean eating and exercise. Murray also works with families who have children dealing with various disabilities and disorders. After a brief spell as a College Football commentator on FOX Sports, Murray became a coach. He was the running backs coach at the University of Arizona before moving over to his alma mater (where he currently occupies the same coaching position under Lincoln Riley).
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Troy Polamalu
Troy Polamalu played the game as if his luscious cascading mane of hair was on fire. The slightly undersized safety was the ultimate playmaker for both USC and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Whenever a turnover or massive play was needed, Polamalu seemingly was always involved in the action. He had a real nose for the football, which is partly a reason as to why he’s considered an all-time great from the safety position.
It’s no surprise to learn that Polamalu was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This took place in 2020 during the pandemic period. For 15 years, he’s been filming commercials with Head & Shoulders (Polamalu’s hair is allegedly insured at the highest amount of any person). Since retiring, Polamalu has also dabbled in a number of endeavors. One could make the case that he’s a very good entrepreneur. A very family oriented man, Polamalu is married with two kids.
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William Perry
William ‘The Fridge’ Perry was known for his magnetic personality during the height of the Chicago Bears’ run during the mid-1980’s. A jumbo athlete with terrific feet, he functioned as both a defensive tackle and as a fullback on goal line situations. The Bears wanted to tap into his natural athleticism — and did so by giving Perry the rock when attempting to burst into the end zone. The South Carolina native was loved by fans and teammates alike. Since retiring, where did Perry go?
The latest update on Perry isn’t a pleasant one. Sports Illustrated did a recent story on Perry — which chronicled his life in a very sad way. According to the story, Perry is back living in rural South Carolina. However, he’s reportedly battling a number of issues — namely obesity, diabetes, alcoholism, financial woes, and those looking to use him for their own benefits. Hopefully, Perry is on the road to getting his life figured out.
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Kyle Turley
Kyle Turley was a rough rider during his time in the NFL. A highly athletic OL out of San Diego State, Turley endeared himself to the fan base in New Orleans with his colorful personality (both on and off the football field). He played in the NFL for roughly 10 years before injuries took their toll on his body. Turley ended up prematurely retiring from the game. However, he’s still closely involved with the well-being of the those in the sport…
Turley has suffered a number of physical injuries during his career. Some have even impacted his brain and mental functionality. Based upon real research, Turley has concluded that the usage of marijuana could aid football players suffering from pain (and in turn prevent reliance upon prescription drugs/pills). Turley is not only an advocate, but he even had a docuseries on VICE chronicling his journey in educating/learning. Aside from aiming to help fellow players dealing with neurological issues, Turley is a music fanatic (and has even toured). He lives in Southern California with his wife and children.
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Colin Kaepernick
Colin Kaepernick was the college quarterback who made the pistol formation famous. A true dual-threat athlete, Kaepernick starred at Nevada before becoming a member of the 49ers. After taking over for Alex Smith, Kaepernick took the league by storm — utilizing legit speed and a very strong arm. He led the 49ers to the Super Bowl (though they eventually lost to the Baltimore Ravens). Kaepernick’s career essentially ended when he decided to peacefully protest during the National Anthem portion of the pregame ceremony. His decision to kneel did not sit well with some people, to put it mildly.
Since his NFL career came to a screeching halt, Kaepernick has gone full bore into the world of activism as it pertains to social and human rights, as well as racial inequality. Kaepernick started his own publishing company — which will eventually release children’s books. He still remains a very prominent fixture when commenting on social rights violations. In October of 2021, a series came out on Netflix entitled Colin in Black & White. It speaks to his own experience as a black child adopted by Caucasian parents. His aim is to illustrate the struggles these adopted kids may face.
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