Beyond the Field: Social Work Careers in Professional Football

Did you know social workers are making an impact in the NFL? In this episode, we explore the growing field of sports social work and what it's really like to support professional football players and retired athletes. From mental health and substance use concerns to career transitions and family support, social workers play a vital role both on and off the field.

We also discuss common interventions, ethical dilemmas unique to professional sports, and how new NFL mandates around behavioral health are creating exciting career opportunities for social workers interested in sports.

In this episode, we cover:

• What social workers do in the NFL and professional sports
• How social workers support current and former players
• Common interventions, including crisis support and mental health care
• Ethical challenges and confidentiality concerns in sports settings
• New NFL policies that are expanding opportunities for social workers

If you've ever wondered what a career in sports social work looks like, this episode will give you an inside look at one of the most unique and rapidly growing areas of the profession.

Devon Lewis-Buchanan has built his career on the belief that leadership rooted in empathy and service can transform people, teams, and communities.A former NFL hopeful who once earned a tryout with the Oakland Raiders, Devon’s journey has come full circle. He returned to the organization as Director of Alumni Benefits & Resources, helping redefine how professional sports teams support their former players, setting a new standard for alumni care and transition services.Now serving as Senior Director of Diversity, Inclusion & Employee Experience for the Las Vegas Raiders, Devon leads strategies that integrate diversity, wellness, recognition, and community impact, creating a holistic, human-centered employee experience.As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE®), Devon is deeply committed to cultivating environments where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.

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