Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by Super Bowl winning offensive tackle Russell Okung. Russell gets candid about what still bothers him about his Seahawks loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX, betting on himself in NFL Free Agency, and his steadfast belief that Bitcoin is the key to a brighter future for all. Plus, he explains the inspiration and aftereffects of his stunning post career physical transformation. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion Jonathan Vilma joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper for an honest, insightful, and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, controversy, redemption, and what comes after an NFL career. Vilma opens the episode reacting to a special surprise — hearing Jimmy Graham and D.J. Williams place him on their personal Mount Rushmore. He shares why being a team captain meant everything to him, and Roman recalls the famous 2009 defensive meeting where Vilma called out the entire unit and set the standard for a championship run. Vilma also dives deep into Bountygate, discussing how he handled being the public face of the scandal, why he never felt pressured to defend himself publicly, and how the ordeal unexpectedly opened doors for him in broadcasting with ESPN and FOX. He also shares stories from the 2009 Super Bowl season, the heartbreaking 2011 playoff loss, and his final attempts to return to the NFL before realizing his playing days were over—while watching training camp on TV at a Dave & Buster’s. From his leadership style, to playing at Miami, to his ventures in finance, real estate, and the restaurant world, Vilma breaks down the full arc of his second act. The guys close out with Vilma’s personal Mount Rushmore and a few hilarious stories from his playing days, including Roman’s memory of getting run over and discovering Vilma speaks German. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest NFL Players podcast, former Miami Dolphins linebacker and media star Channing Crowder joins Peanut and Roman. In this raw and hilarious conversation, Channing opens up about his “Welcome to the NFL” moment, the lessons he learned from Hall of Famers Zach Thomas and Junior Seau, and how Nick Saban’s intense coaching style shaped — and tested — him. He also reveals how he blew $750,000 before he was drafted. From overcoming three ACL tears, to navigating retirement, to building a media empire, Channing keeps it real about the grind it takes to succeed after football. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by former Bengals running back Giovani Bernard to find out what he’s been up to since he retired three years ago. Giovani opens up about the loss of his newborn son and the joy he’s found in becoming a parent of twin girls. He also explains how he dealt with the Bengals’ lack of playoff success during career and why he decided to retire after ten years. Then Giovani shares the multiple passions he’s found in second act, including photography, endurance sports, and investing in real estate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of NFL Second Acts, hosts Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Roman Harper welcome former Pro Bowl tight end Jimmy Graham for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and entertaining. Jimmy talks about his decision to retire from football and reflects on the moments that defined his career, including his “welcome to the NFL” moment and the time he famously jumped over Roman on the field. Jimmy also shares his death defying journey rowing across the Arctic Ocean and why he did it to support children in need. The guys also explore what life has looked like since Jimmy stepped away from the game. He’s now a licensed helicopter pilot, a bank entrepreneur and he’s entered the world of venture capitalism. The discussion dives into his growing passion for aviation, his personal Mount Rushmore, and the story behind his old nickname, “Big Red.” It’s a revealing look at how Jimmy has carried his drive and curiosity beyond football, turning every challenge into a new adventure. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Alejandro Villanueva sits down Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to share his unique journey: growing up as an army brat moving around the U.S. and Europe; to an Army Ranger deployed in Afghanistan; then becoming a Pro Bowl offensive lineman with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Alejandro explains why he decided to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, why he decided to retire as an Army Ranger, and how he was able to tryout and make it to an NFL roster. He also discusses his third act as a farmer growing fruit and how that connects to his Spanish roots. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Hall of Famer Jim Covert joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to reflect on his incredible journey from anchoring the ’85 Chicago Bears offensive line to leading in the healthcare industry after football. Jim shares untold stories from his playing days — including his famous fight with Steve McMichael, blocking for Walter Payton, and what it was like facing that dominant Bears defense every day in practice. He also opens up about the injury that ended his career, his transition from the NFL to the boardroom, and how his daughter’s fight with spina bifida changed his perspective on leadership, resilience, and purpose. It’s an inspiring conversation about toughness, legacy, and the power of reinvention — on and off the field. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Zamir Cobb — former NFL wide receiver turned President of The Trust (powered by the NFLPA) — to talk about his powerful journey from the gridiron to guiding players through life beyond the game. Zamir shares stories from his time with the Steelers, including training alongside a young Ben Roethlisberger and learning under Coach Bill Cowher, as well as the mental battles that came with an early injury during his rookie season. He opens up about how those challenges fueled his passion for helping others and ultimately led him to a career of purpose — leading programs that have helped more than a thousand NFL legends improve their overall quality of life. From his early days in D.C. to testifying in over 150 court cases as a juvenile case worker, Zamir’s story is a masterclass in resilience, service, and redefining success after football. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Hall of Fame offensive tackle Anthony Muñoz to learn how he overcame three major college injuries to become one of the NFL’s all-time 100 Greatest Players. Anthony explains how he set the NFL touchdown record for an offensive lineman and what was unique about his training protocol. He also discusses his charity work and what he’s doing to support Cincinnati’s youth. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this new NFL Players: Second Acts pod episode, Browns Hall of Famer Joe Thomas joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper for a conversation packed with grit, humor, and insight from one of the most durable players in NFL history. Thomas breaks down what it was like to block for 23 different quarterbacks, play 10,000+ consecutive snaps, and allow only 30 sacks across his legendary career. He reflects on his joy for playing in Cleveland despite losing seasons, his intense gameday routine, and the toughest defenders he ever faced. Joe also shares what life after football looks like — from his health and mindset after retirement to his newest passion as a beef farmer. Whether you’re a Browns fan or just love great football stories, this episode is a masterclass in consistency, leadership, and resilience. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Peanut and Roman sit down with Hall of Famer Andre Reed, one of the most reliable receivers of the Buffalo Bills’ Super Bowl era. Reed opens up about his path from Division II prospect to becoming one of the greatest wideouts in NFL history. He reflects on the emotional highs and lows of four straight Super Bowl losses, and his zone game in the epic 32-point comeback against the Houston Oilers. Reed also talks about his long road to the Hall of Fame and the chills he still gets remembering that call. Beyond football, he shares how he’s paying it forward — from his work as a Boys & Girls Club ambassador and literacy advocate to launching his nutrition company Cellev8 and serving as commissioner of a new arena football league. With stories of perseverance, purpose, and positivity, this conversation shows why Andre Reed’s second act is just as impactful as his first. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Hall of Fame center Kevin Mawae for a conversation packed with stories from the trenches and lessons from a career defined by toughness and leadership. Kevin shares his “welcome to the NFL” moments, from getting blasted as a rookie long snapper to battling Hall of Famer Cortez Kennedy in camp. He reflects on blocking for some of multiple 1,000-yard rushers, including Curtis Martin, Chris Johnson, and Chris Warren. Kevin also opens up about the transition from guard to center, the brutal diet that fueled his playing weight, and the camaraderie that made offensive line rooms so special. Beyond the gridiron, he talks about his role as president of the NFLPA, and as an advocate for players throughout his career. From pancakes at training camp to Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, this is Kevin Mawae’s journey through football and beyond. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Hall of Fame defensive tackle John Randle to find out what made him the king of talking trash, what inspired him to paint his face for games, and the weirdest pre-game ritual that he and his teammates tried. John also discusses his work with the NFL Legends community and why it’s important to reach out to people when you’re having a hard time. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dallas Cowboys legend Darren Woodson joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper on the latest NFL Players: Second Acts episode for a candid conversation about his life on and off the field. Woodson shares his “welcome to the NFL” moment, what it was like covering Michael Irvin in practice, and why he never left Dallas during his entire career. He opens up about Jimmy Johnson’s shocking exit, the transition to Barry Switzer, and why he thinks the Cowboys haven’t captured another Super Bowl since the dynasty days. Woodson also weighs in on Dak Prescott’s work ethic, the infamous T.O. fight, and his party days at Humperdinks. Plus, he talks about his post-football career at ESPN, his Hall of Fame hopes, and the personal Mount Rushmore that shaped his life. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Hall of Famer Steve Largent for a wide-ranging conversation that spans his legendary NFL career, his second act in Congress, and the values that have guided him through it all. Largent reflects on his journey from getting cut by the Oilers to becoming the face of the Seattle Seahawks, sharing stories of his most satisfying season, his 100th touchdown, and even his payback hit on Mike Harden. He opens up about life after football—why he never struggled with retirement, how he became a licensed pilot, and his time as CEO of a telecommunications company. Largent also dives into his political career as the only Pro Football Hall of Famer to serve in Congress, recalling his “welcome to Congress” moment, the balance of family and public service, and why he’ll never go back. From humility to servant leadership, this episode is packed with wisdom and insight from one of the NFL’s true all-time greats. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this revealing episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to reflect on his remarkable football journey. From his early years as a special teams linebacker to becoming the youngest head coach in Steelers history, Cowher shares how he earned the trust of his players, managed generational talents like Troy Polamalu and Rod Woodson and built a blue-collar identity in Pittsburgh that led to a Super Bowl championship. He also opens up about walking away from coaching to focus on family, how personal loss reshaped his perspective, and the purpose he’s found in his second act as a broadcaster and mentor. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to talk football, family, and second acts. LT reflects on his journey from idolizing Walter Payton and learning moves from Barry Sanders, to becoming an NFL MVP and a Hall of Famer. He shares what it’s like coaching high school football in Texas, the lessons he learned from teammates like Junior Seau, and the impact of Marty Schottenheimer on his career—even after the controversial firing following a 14-2 season. LT also opens up about his transition into TV, keeping his competitive edge in broadcasting, and his special bond with Drew Brees. Along the way, Peanut and Roman swap stories about facing LT on the field—including a missed tackle in London—and dive into what made his stiff arm legendary. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hall of Famer Barry Sanders joins Roman Harper and Peanut Tillman on the NFL Players: Second Acts Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation. Barry explains why winning the Heisman Trophy remains the most meaningful accolade of his career and talks about how his legacy has continued to grow in retirement, with many young fans discovering him through Madden and social media, and how he’s become more open to sharing his story over the years. Barry also opens up about recovering from a heart attack and his recently released documentary Making of a Heart Attack, which details that life-changing experience. The guys dive into the resurgence of the Detroit Lions and what it means for the city, reflect on Barry’s decision to step away from the game just one rushing touchdown shy of 100, and hear which of his records he believes will stand the test of time. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this inspiring episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly sits down with hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper and shares how enduring four straight Super Bowl losses shaped his perspective on the game and on life. Jim reflects on the leadership lessons from the Bills’ golden era, the bond with teammates that still runs deep decades later, and how his faith and family guided him through the most difficult chapters of his journey. He also talks about his commitment to honoring the legacy of his late son Hunter through his charitable foundation, and the purpose that drives his second act. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this powerful episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith sits down with hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper and shares why after his legendary shoulder separation game he said, “If I’m gonna die, let me die in Dallas.” Emmitt opens up about what it meant to be named to the NFL’s All-Time 100 Team—an honor he says holds even more weight than making the Hall of Fame. He reflects on his final two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals and how that chapter helped him find closure and prepare for life beyond the gridiron. But the conversation doesn’t stop at football. Emmitt shares how he built a successful business empire in real estate and construction, leaning on mentors like Roger Staubach and Magic Johnson, and how a chance encounter with Michael Jordan sparked a lasting connection. He also drops wisdom for current players on why investing in themselves now matters most. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.