Last week, we had the chance to speak with former N.F.L. defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins.The 12-year pro is now retired from the game, but that doesn’t mean the game doesn’t still follow him. From his on the field highlights to the lowlights that have hung over him since hanging up his cleats, the game is still there.
We spoke about his life in football, how years of collisions have began to take mental toll on him, how dark his life got after football, finding CBD and more.
15-minutes long, the interview provided some great moments. Here are 5 key points you should take note of while listening.
5. No Time Soon: Even with players like Aaron Donaldson set to break the bank for money made for a defensive player, that’s no incentive for Cullen to return to the field. He said emphatically, “No” when asked if news of new contracts makes him want to play anymore.
4. Good ol days: You can see why. Playing 12-seasons in the league as a undrafted free-agent, Cullen had plenty of good times on the field.
3. Comes with a Cost: Those 12-seasons came with some consequence. Numerous injuries led to a pill addiction that followed him off the field
4. Dark Times: Pills that were meant for pain relief turned into more pain. After leaving the league, pills turned to alcohol as he tired to manage pain.
5. Relief: At a family members request, he tried CBD oil as an alternative to pills and alcohol and he’s been on the road to recovery ever since.
Hear our full interview below