By Karina Knighten
NFL Player Engagement
Now that the 2011 season has concluded, job shadows are underway at the league office. Since January, NFLPE has hosted current and former players for a comprehensive overview of the “business of football” and provided each player a unique experience based on his interests. Some areas include: football operations, marketing, community relations, corporate development, events, consumer products, and security, in addition to an overview of all Player Engagement programs and services available for both current and former players. The job shadow experience is a valuable opportunity to expand a player’s network and develop business relationships at the league office. Thomas Howard of the Cincinnati Bengals made a good impression during his initial job shadow and was able to secure an additional internship with the Consumer Products department and will be continuing his experience at the league office for two weeks in April.
“There is truly a wealth of information at the league office and I hope more players take advantage of it. Sitting down with Vice President of Player Engagement Troy Vincent was enlightening. He has a true passion that shines through and is in line with the beliefs of players. You kind of come in here not knowing what to expect, and I was pleased to see our voice is welcomed at the League Office” – Aki Jones, Former Player
2012 League Office job shadow participants have included:
Winston Justice, Philadelphia Eagles
Thomas Howard, Cincinnati Bengals
Reggie Corner, Buffalo Bills
Darryl Blackstock, Oakland Raiders
Aki Jones, Former Player
If you are interested in more information about the NFL League Office job shadow, please contact your club Director of Player Engagement or Samantha Kleinman at the League Office at Samantha.Kleinman@nfl.com.