5 NFL players who run a successful business following retirement 

#3 – Rosevelt Colvin

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After seeing his NFL career end after a successful spell with the New England Patriots, Colvin has moved into the business world. He currently owns five UPS stores in Indianapolis, which act as delivery access points for drivers and consumers alike.

Several services, including passport photos, printing, industrial shredding, and notary facilities, are all on offer in Colvin's stores, which have expanded from an initial purchase of two stores.

Alongside this move into the UPS business, Colvin has also been part of a confectionary business he runs alongside his wife. The cupcake shop called 'SweeTies Gourmet Treats' was formed before his NFL retirement, but his work within the business only began afterward. Since then, there has been an expansion to two stores in Indianapolis, which is profitable for the Colvin family.

#4 – Darryl Sharpton

Seattle Seahawks v Houston Texans

Darryl Sharpton played in the NFL with the Houston Texans, but his real success came from e-commerce.

Having seen his career cut short through injuries, Sharpton utilized what money he had earned in the sport by opening an e-commerce furniture business.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a generally negative impact on businesses, Sharpton saw the shopping spree created by people stuck at home as hugely beneficial to his business. People were buying furniture from him left and right, which saw his revenue production virtually double.

Sharpton started 'Edloe Finch' and 'Albany Park' furniture companies, and they provide products to Amazon. The companies were estimated to make $20 million in 2020, despite their 2019 accounts showing just $3.9 million in sales.

What is remarkable about Sharpton's success is how he used his $4 million worth of NFL earnings to start the businesses, which he has now more than doubled in the years since.

As of 2022, the projections for Sharpton's businesses are around $100 million in revenue.

#5 – Peyton Manning

Miami Dolphins v Indianapolis Colts

Peyton Manning's interest in business began before his time in the NFL ended. For six years, Manning owned 31 Papa John's Pizza stores across the Denver area. However, after selling the stores, Manning has spread his business wings in other directions.

2020 saw Manning team up with broadcaster Jim Nantz and his brother, Eli, to release a premium bourbon called 'Sweetens Cove.' Manning part-owns the business alongside Nantz, Eli, and former tennis star Andy Roddick.

The former Indianapolis Colts quarterback has also invested in an NFT company worth around $1 billion.

His success in business has also coincided with a promising broadcasting career, with Manning launching a media company called 'Omaha Productions' to take ownership of his media work.

Manning is also loosely involved with the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA, with his wife having a part-ownership share.