NFL players are often defined by what they do on Sundays. Fans see strength, speed, and focus under the brightest lights, but away from the field, many of the league’s top professionals lead surprisingly creative and low-key lives. These hobbies help players relax, stay mentally sharp, and maintain balance during long seasons filled with pressure, travel, and constant evaluation. While fans may debate stats or even check out the NFL odds on DraftKings during the week, players themselves often turn to unexpected passions once the pads come off.
Music as a Creative Outlet
Music is one of the most common off-field interests among NFL stars. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has spoken openly about his love for music and how it helps him unwind. While he is not releasing albums, music plays a big role in his preparation and recovery routines.
Former and current players like Le’Veon Bell and Damien Harris have taken it a step further by recording rap music. For some, music is more than a hobby. It is a way to express emotions that football does not always allow. Writing lyrics or spending time in a studio gives players creative control in a career that is otherwise highly structured.
Art and Design
Visual art may not be the first thing people associate with professional football, but several players are talented artists. San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has shown interest in graphic design and sketching, often using art as a way to disconnect from the intensity of the NFL season.
Former NFL defensive end Dwight Freeney developed a passion for painting during his career. He described art as meditative, allowing him to slow his thoughts and focus on something completely separate from competition. For players dealing with injuries or long recovery periods, art can also be a powerful mental escape.
Chess and Strategy Games
Many NFL professionals enjoy strategy games, particularly chess. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith has talked about playing chess to sharpen his decision-making and patience. The connection between chess and football is easy to see. Both require anticipation, reading opponents, and planning several moves ahead.
Former Super Bowl champion Tom Brady was also known to enjoy strategy-based games and puzzles. These hobbies align closely with the mental side of football and allow players to keep their minds engaged even during downtime.
Cooking and Food Culture
Cooking has become a popular hobby for many NFL players, especially as nutrition plays a larger role in performance and recovery. Players like Russell Wilson and Aaron Donald have spoken about learning to cook healthier meals and experimenting with recipes at home.
For some players, cooking is about control and routine. Preparing meals provides structure during the offseason and gives players a sense of normalcy away from team facilities. Others simply enjoy the creative process and the chance to share food with family and teammates.
Gaming and Esports
Video gaming has long been popular in NFL locker rooms, but it has grown into a serious hobby for many professionals. Players like Kyler Murray are well known for their interest in gaming, especially competitive titles and sports games.
Gaming allows players to stay connected with friends and teammates, particularly during road trips or long stretches away from home. Some NFL players even stream their gameplay, building online communities that exist entirely outside of football.
Outdoor Adventures and Nature
Not all hobbies are indoors. Many NFL professionals use the offseason to reconnect with nature. Hiking, fishing, and hunting are popular activities, especially among players who grew up in rural areas.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins has shared his love for outdoor activities as a way to recharge mentally. Spending time away from crowds and cameras helps players reset before returning to the demands of professional football.
Collecting and Investing Passions
Some players develop hobbies around collecting, whether it is sneakers, watches, or rare sports memorabilia. Others dive into investing, learning about real estate, startups, or technology. These interests often start as curiosity and grow into long-term passions that prepare players for life after football.
Understanding business and finance also gives players a sense of security and independence. It is another way they build identity beyond the game.
The NFL season is physically demanding and mentally exhausting. Secret hobbies give players balance, creativity, and emotional release. They help reduce burnout and improve overall well-being, which can translate into better performance on the field.
For fans, learning about these hobbies offers a reminder that NFL stars are multidimensional people with interests far beyond highlight reels and box scores. While the public focuses on wins, losses, and predictions, players themselves often find their greatest peace in activities that have nothing to do with football at all.
