Jason Brown Departs NFL Wealth and the Narrative Takes an Unusual Twist

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and as you contemplate ditching friends and family for Black Friday sales, I wanted to share an inspiring tale that is in keeping with its spirit…

Jason Brown achieved sports greatness as an NFL offensive lineman, reaching heights that most dream of but few achieve. Selected in the fourth round of 2005 NFL draft, Brown quickly established himself as one of (if not) the premier center. Following his initial contract expiration – earning a 5-year, $37.5 million contract worth an astounding $20 million guarantee in 2009 which made him the highest paid center in his league.

Three years later, Brown was cut to clear salary cap room but was offered another contract from one of his original teams, the Baltimore Ravens, which desperately needed his skills at center and initially drafted him. But contrary to what his agent advised (that it would be “the biggest mistake of your life. “), he chose instead to turn down that contract and leave football altogether at only 28 years old.

At this point, you are probably anticipating what may come next and are anticipating something along these lines: retired athlete spends millions on lavish lifestyle and eventually files bankruptcy.

Not quite. This story takes an interesting deviation from the often tragic post-athletic career script we all expect and is much more heartwarming. Watch the short video first before we discuss.