Former NFL MVP Cam Newton has successfully transitioned into a new career by leveraging content creation and engaging conversations on social media after his playing days ended. At the NFL’s annual personal branding and social workshops in Los Angeles, Newton advised current players to pursue similar paths. He emphasized the importance of using social media as a strategic tool rather than a necessity, highlighting that taking advantage of one’s access and identity can bring long-term benefits.
Now in its sixth year, this two-day event focuses on educating players about entrepreneurship, partnerships, and building their personal brands through social media while still active in the league. The second day of the workshop, hosted at YouTube’s Playa Vista facility, featured YouTube’s global creator head Kim Larson, who stressed the value of players finding their unique voices, cultivating relationships, and utilizing resources available to them.
The NFL collaborated with former receiver Larry Fitzgerald to develop this program aimed at equipping players with branding skills. Other former players involved include media personalities Ryan Clark, Jason McCarty, and Marshawn Lynch, all sharing their journeys from the field to broader media and business careers. Tracy Perlman, NFL Senior Vice President of Player Operations, highlighted how this education encourages players in early and later stages of their careers to think about life after football and to share their stories to build a following.
One example is New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson, who has cultivated a significant Instagram presence by sharing glimpses of his family life. Chicago Bears receiver Roma O Dunze, entering his second NFL season, actively engaged in the workshop to better understand how to navigate and capitalize on social media spaces.
Eric D. Williams, the NFL reporter covering this story, notes the growing importance of players managing their personal brand for long-term success both on and off the field.
Fan Take: This initiative is crucial for NFL fans because it shows players are thinking beyond the game, preparing for life after football while still in the spotlight. It reflects a positive shift towards empowering athletes to build their own legacies, which can deepen fan engagement and bring fresh perspectives to the sport’s culture.
