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Life off the gridiron: NFL players getting workplace experience in special program

The 2019 NFLPA Externship Program is underway and providing 66 players with workplace experience across 27 organizations in the U.S.

WASHINGTON — For some NFL players, life after sports isn't always easy to figure out. But thanks to a special program that gives some players workplace experience, the transition may be easier. 

For the sixth year, the NFL Players Association( NFLPA), which is the union for professional football players, is offering an externship program that is changing lives. 

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Currently, the offseason program has 66 players enrolled across 27 organizations throughout the country. The externships include places like WeWork Labs, Under Armour, StubHub and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Matt Flanagan, a tight end for the Washington Redskins, is gaining experience at WeWork Labs which works with startups and corporations. He gives advice to smaller companies on how to grow and increase value.

"It's definitely good professional experience," said Flanagan, who embraces the thought of being prepared for the world outside of football. " The first thing they tell you when you get to the NFL is that it stands for 'not for long.'" 

Devin Fuller, a former wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons and now free agent, has an externship at The Trust. It's an office at the NFLPA that helps players who are transitioning get the support they need to succeed.

"They have many different programs for a lot of former players, so I think people should take advantage," Fuller said. 

The NFLPA received more than 100 applications this winter from interested players who applied for their top three choices then interviewed with organizations. Players from 27 different NFL teams are represented in the program, which ends March 8. It's run by the Player Affairs Department at the NFLPA. 

Connor Ford, a player manager at the NFLPA, said the program builds confidence in the players and helps them succeed off the field.  

"I think it's really important for these guys to see that they can be confident in whatever it is they want to do outside of the field," Ford said. "We provide this opportunity so they can begin to identify new areas of interest." 

"Take advantage of all the things the NFLPA has to offer and educate yourself," Flanagan said. 

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