Sitting in the back of a room, Zach Harrison, a third-year defensive lineman, raised his hand to ask questions during an event aimed at preparing NFL players for life beyond football. The event was the Atlanta Falcons’ 2025 Pro Summit, presented by Airbnb and Truist.
The summit was designed to provide relationship opportunities for both current and former players. “The outside world looks at an NFL player and thinks that they have everything,” said Lovie Tabron, the Falcons’ player engagement specialist. “But there are so many things they’re still figuring out.”
Held over two days in Atlanta, primarily at the University of Georgia’s Terry Executive Education Center, the summit included informational sessions and networking events. Participants included current Falcons such as Kaden Elliss and Lamar Jackson, as well as former players like James Smith-Williams.
Fernando Velasco, the Falcons director of player development who conceived the idea in 2023, explained its importance: “It creates a lot of anxiety,” he said about transitioning out of football. He emphasized that having people speak directly to players can help them think beyond their playing careers.
Friday featured an introductory session on etiquette and networking before moving into more intensive sessions on Saturday covering topics from insurance to real estate. Panelists like Mark Jennings shared insights with players who had focused much of their lives on football.
Panelists aimed to connect with players by addressing their unique situations. For instance, one speaker used flying an airplane as an analogy for starting a business—highlighting how players begin with advantages but must continue learning.
Players engaged actively during sessions, asking questions relevant to their interests. Kaden Elliss noted that being able to ask honest questions helped make discussions more productive.
The summit provided a safe space for all participants regardless of experience level in areas outside football. Zach Harrison advised peers: “Understand that yes, we’re blessed…but it’s not forever.”
Ultimately, the Pro Summit sought to ease transitions from professional sports by informing players about real-world opportunities and challenges. James Smith-Williams summed up its value: “It’s just being informed…to help make the best decision possible.”
Tabron and Velasco hope these efforts prepare athletes for successful futures after leaving professional sports behind.
“They invest so much into the game,” Velasco stated. He expressed confidence that future versions of these athletes would appreciate taking time now to invest in themselves beyond their athletic careers.
