Breiden Fehoko has brought to light a little-discussed reality within the NFL. The Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman revealed the financial problems that affect even players with multi-million dollar contracts.
In a recent social media Q&A session, the 28-year-old was blunt in addressing what he called the “dark side” of professional sport.
According to Fehoko, he has witnessed teammates spend their entire annual salary, approximately $600,000 after taxes, even before the start of the season.
And while these incomes may seem exorbitant, many players end up in precarious financial situations. “Nobody admits it, but there are players in the league with big contracts who are practically bankrupt,”Fehoko said.
Economic problems in the NFL: high income, little financial stability
Fehoko, who began his NFL career with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2020, is currently back on the Steelers roster
Throughout his career, he has accumulated just over two million dollars in earnings, according to Spotrac, although he has not played an official game since the 2022 season.
His statements highlight a troubling pattern, that despite the benefits the league provides, such as pensions, health insurance for five years after retirement and accredited seasons for players who meet certain requirements, a large proportion face serious financial difficulties after leaving the sport.
In fact, the American Institute of Bankruptcy estimates that nearly one in six players files for bankruptcy within 12 years of retirement.
Fehoko reflects on financial struggles in the NFL
Fehoko’s testimony also points to a cultural silence within the professional football environment. “Nobody will admit it,” he said, referring to the fact that many players avoid talking about their financial problems out of embarrassment or social pressure.
This phenomenon is usually the result of the high-paced lifestyle that many adopt when they reach professional player status. Luxury purchases, bad investments and the pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle are the reasons why they end up bankrupt when trying to maintain the same standard of living with lower incomes.
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