Yes, NFL players do receive health insurance after retirement, but the coverage and duration depend on several factors, including the number of seasons they played and the specific benefits negotiated in the collective bargaining agreements (CBA) between the NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA).
Health Insurance Benefits for Retired NFL Players
- Post-Career Health Insurance
- Coverage Duration: NFL players who are vested (typically having played at least three credited seasons, though this can vary slightly depending on the CBA) are eligible for five years of post-career health insurance coverage.
- What’s Covered: This coverage generally includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. The specifics of the coverage can vary based on the terms negotiated in the CBA.
- NFL Player Insurance Plan
- Vested Benefits: Vested players also have access to the NFL Player Insurance Plan, which provides a range of health and welfare benefits. This plan can offer various levels of coverage depending on the player’s status and years of service.
- Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
- What It Is: Some retired players may have access to a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), which is a fund that can be used to cover out-of-pocket medical expenses. This account accumulates based on the number of seasons played, and the funds can be used tax-free for eligible medical expenses.
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Availability: Under certain CBAs, retired players may also be eligible for long-term care insurance, which helps cover the cost of care in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or in-home care.
- Neurocognitive Disability Benefits
- For Cognitive Issues: Players diagnosed with specific neurocognitive conditions (e.g., dementia, Alzheimer’s) may be eligible for additional medical benefits and care, particularly under programs established to address concerns over concussions and other head injuries sustained during their careers.
- The 88 Plan
- Support for Brain-Related Injuries: Named after Hall of Fame tight end John Mackey (who wore number 88), this plan provides financial assistance to retired players diagnosed with dementia, ALS, or Parkinson’s disease, helping cover medical and custodial care costs.
Recent Changes and Improvements
- CBA Enhancements: The 2020 CBA brought about significant enhancements to health benefits for retired players, including increased contributions to their HRAs and better long-term care options. Additionally, it introduced new programs to support players with specific health issues related to their football careers.
- Trusts and Funds: The NFL and NFLPA have also established several trusts and funds aimed at providing additional financial and medical support to retired players facing health issues that are believed to be related to their time in the league.
Final Thoughts
While NFL players do receive health insurance after retirement, the extent and duration of the coverage depend on various factors, including their years of service and the provisions of the latest CBA. The league and the players’ union have made strides in recent years to improve these benefits, particularly in response to growing concerns about the long-term health impacts of playing professional football. However, it’s important for players to plan for their long-term healthcare needs, as the post-career insurance is not indefinite and may not cover all potential future medical expenses.