The NFL Players Association and Syracuse are now partners - but how?
On Thursday, Syracuse University announced a new partnership with the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA). The NFLPA and Syracuse will offer educational programs to NFL players, both current and retired, according to a statement by the Falk School of Sport,
The press release reads:
"National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and Syracuse University have launched a new program to provide access to market-relevant online degrees, certificates, and career development opportunities through the University’s nationally ranked online degree and certificate programs.
The NFL Players Association Education Program provides access to high‑quality online degrees and certificate programs designed to advance the long‑term career growth of active and former NFL players, NFLPA staff, and eligible family members. United by a commitment to professional development and expanded opportunity across the NFLPA community, the initiative offers flexible academic pathways tailored to diverse goals."
Beyond current and retired players, the program is open to NFLPA employees and "eligible participants."
NFL/Syracuse alumni offer insight on partnership
Former NFL offensive lineman Justin Pugh also offered a statement to the school's website in regards to the announced partnership.
"As a Syracuse alum, I can speak firsthand to the University’s prestige and the doors it opens — both on the field and in the boardroom. Syracuse has a rare ability to connect with athletes in a real and meaningful way, and that shared commitment is what brought us together. Partnering with NFLPA is a natural extension of everything the University already stands for."
Pugh was selected by the New York Giants in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. The 35-year-old Pugh spent 11 years in the NFL with the Giants and Cardinals, helping both teams get to the playoffs (2016 Giants, 2021 Cardinals).
With the Orange, he was a member of the All-Big East First Team as a senior. He started 34 games in the program and helped block for a 1,000-yard rusher in three different years.
He was taken No. 19 overall by New York and is the last first round pick for the program.
Past partnerships, including SportsCaster U
This is not the first time Syracuse has formed a partnership with a professional sports league. In 2008, Syracuse and the National Basketball Players Association (NBAPA) formed SportsCaster U.
The four-day training program offered a yearly outlet for NBA players to practice a potential future in sports broadcasting.
As the NBA's website describes it, SportsCaster U has offered:
"Seminars and mentoring programs in real estate, technology and franchising. The union also runs programs, to acquaint its members with possible careers in coaching or in a team’s front office."
Some of the notable attendees from the past 18 years have included Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, Richard Jefferson, and Richard Hamilton.
Potential impact on recruiting?
Could the partnerships help land potential future Syracuse athletes in any of the school's sports? It is possible.
While you don't have to be a Syracuse alum to take part in this program, perhaps a familiarity with the university as an undergrad will open the door to wanting to stay connected through an athlete's playing days.
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