By Troy Vincent
NFL Player Engagement
Commissioner Roger Goodell made it clear from his first day on the job that playing in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and that belief has been our beacon ever since.
With that philosophy as the foundation, our annual Rookie Symposium coming up in Cleveland focuses on League expectations of players rooted in our four core teaching principles of History, Total Wellness, Experience, and Professionalism.
To meet these lofty standards, it’s best to begin preparing now for moving to the next level.
“In terms of preparing the Symposium, the speakers are there because of their passion and desire to be helpful, and are not there to just blow hot air,” said former player Patrick Kerney, an active participant in our NFL Player Engagement programs. “In the past, you have guys in the back texting the whole time, and sadly, you can write their story for them, and it’s usually not a good one. The guys who want to soak it all in and understand that experience is the best teacher, you can write their story as well, and it’s usually much better.”
What your story will be depends on you.
“In the NFL, it isn’t just about how well you can play anymore, since we understand that there is also a behavior that has to be met,” said Keith Elias, another former player and current NFLPE Transition Coach. “We hope to inspire, encourage, and empower the youth and all who want to participate to draw a line in the sand to do what’s right, not just on-the-field but off-the-field as well.”
Learning to do what’s right is what we teach at the Symposium.
We begin by outlining our expectations and then talk about transitioning into the NFL. Topics will then include the all-important health and safety area, with a focus on mental health, domestic violence, non-discrimination, and family safety, as well as performance enhancing substances and alcohol awareness to prevent DWI.
We then help you develop your professional game plan by giving you our secrets of success for staying in the league and having a prosperous career, culminating with a history lesson during our day at the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton.