In this profile, JJ highlights some of the many hurdles that a player may face as he undergoes this transition, including the loss of identity that comes with no longer being “an NFL player” and feelings of isolation.
The NFL Transition Coach program uses a peer-to-peer coaching model that empowers trained NFL Legends to serve as mentors, supporters and sounding boards for players transitioning out of the NFL. NFL Total Wellness provides at least 70 hours of training for Transition Coaches to give them the skills to build relationships with transitioning players and to identify when individuals are struggling or need additional support. This interview series briefly profiles the coaches who assist players navigating the challenges of life after the game.
JJ Moses played kick and punt returner for the Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, and Arizona Cardinals. He also served as the Director of Player Engagement for the Houston Texans from 2018 to 2020. He is now a published author, speaker, and transition coach based in Houston. JJ has served as a Transition Coach since 2022. In this profile, we have drafted a narrative based on a small section of JJ’s responses to three important questions.
"Every guy is different. Some guys might need financial assistance, some guys might be dealing with relationship problems, depression or health challenges…We’re NFL players, we’re strong… But in reality, we deal with emotional problems and challenges and go through situations that everyone faces. We're not immune to life, we're not immune to trials and errors that tend to happen."
The challenges of transitioning from the NFL are unique and multifaceted. JJ highlights some of the many hurdles that a player may face as he undergoes this transition, including the loss of identity that comes with no longer being “an NFL player” and feelings of isolation. He shares his passion for helping players navigate the uncertainty that exists as they take steps towards their future and describes the appreciation that some players express when someone takes the time to check in and offer support.
"I’ve always wanted to serve others. I’ve always wanted to help individuals achieve greatness on every level. Greatness in terms of, being a great father, a great friend, being a great husband, a great provider, being great at work."
As an undrafted free agent, JJ has experienced the uncertainties of the NFL both on the field and during his transition. He was able to develop a support system and discover resources that helped him identify what was next for him. This personal journey, filled with ups and downs, is what led JJ to become a Transition Coach. His hope is that he is able to provide players with a level of support that was not immediately available to him when he left the NFL in 2005. JJ is highly passionate about empowering players as they move forward in their careers after playing football.
"If I tell a player that I'll call them back or if I tell a player that I have a resource, I make sure that I honor my word. I try to set the standard and they know that each and every moment, each and every conversation that they have with me, I will fulfill the obligation that I have with them. That's what brings credibility."
Accountability, confidentiality, empathy, and active listening are the core components of JJ’s steps to building trust with the players he coaches. He acknowledges the importance of being reliable and holding himself accountable to his word and strives to create a confidential and nonjudgmental space for those he coaches. Empathy, active listening, and flexibility are skills that JJ works to demonstrate in his work with players as he offers guidance and support through their transition and into the next part of their journey.
