Former pro athletes turn to farming for a greater mission

In the United States, former professional athletes are transitioning into agriculture, finding new passions and purposes after their sports careers. One such athlete, Jason Brown, a former NFL player, began farming as a way to honor his late brother and build generational wealth for his family. Despite facing the challenge of being part of a demographic that constitutes less than 2% of U.S. farmers, Brown is determined to create quality food as a form of medicine for communities. He emphasizes the importance of land ownership and hopes to encourage more Black and women farmers to enter the field. Von Miller, an NFL star known for his prowess on the field, has also ventured into agriculture. He launched an organic chicken farm called Greener Pastures in Texas after securing a lucrative NFL contract. This shift represents how sports figures are aiming to break into the farming industry, which talks about their desire to promote healthy eating while contributing to the local economy. Miller’s experience reflects both the excitement and challenges of starting a farm, including the need for considerable capital and business acumen to achieve profitability once he faces the complexities of animal farming. The movement of these athletes into agriculture underscores a broader trend in society where individuals seek more meaningful connections with their communities and environments. Farming, which might seem unrelated to their previous endeavors, allows them to find fulfillment in building sustainable practices, creating nutrient-rich food, and sharing their journeys with younger generations. These athlete-farmers not only take on the roles of producers but also act as educators, inviting others to appreciate the importance of agriculture in everyday life. Ultimately, the story of athlete-farmers like Jason Brown and Von Miller highlights the untapped potential within the agricultural sector. With their backgrounds in sports, they possess unique skill sets that can translate into this new domain. Their stories encourage a reconsideration of the farming industry and its potential to provide not only food but also a sense of community and purpose in their post-athletic lives. These transitions are not merely occupations; they present opportunities to make impactful differences in their lives and the lives of others in their communities.