From NFL to Pickleball: Rodney Adams, a former NFL wide receiver, is making waves once again—this time in the world of pickleball. The former player for the Minnesota Vikings, Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and New York Jets is now training to join the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) after briefly pursuing a career in professional ultimate frisbee.
From the NFL to Ultimate Frisbee
Adams was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2017, but his time in the NFL was brief. He bounced between teams, signing with the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and New York Jets, primarily on practice squads. His only official roster appearance came in 2021 with the Bears, but he was moved back to the practice squad the next day. He eventually retired in 2022 due to a non-football-related injury.
Three years into retirement, Adams felt the urge to compete again. He discovered ultimate frisbee and was intrigued by its fast pace and athletic demands, similar to football. After a private tryout, he was signed by the Colorado Summit, a team in the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA), in February 2025.
A Sudden Shift to Pickleball
Despite signing with the Summit, Adams asked out of his UFA contract just three weeks later to pursue professional pickleball. His interest in the sport began during his NFL days when a teammate introduced him to the game. Recently, he has been training at Picklr Loveland, a Colorado-based indoor pickleball facility, under the guidance of Leslie Arnold.
Adams has also received advice from professional pickleball player Eli Steiner and Pickleball Hall of Fame inductee Kyle Yates, both of whom have recognized his potential in the sport.
Making Pickleball History
If Adams secures a PPA contract, he will become the first former NFL player to sign with the PPA. Additionally, he would be the first athlete to sign with both the UFA and the PPA—an unprecedented transition between professional sports.
His decision to switch sports has raised curiosity among fans. Some ultimate frisbee supporters speculated about his ability to adapt to a non-contact sport, while others joked about professional athletes taking over the frisbee scene. Now, with his unexpected shift to pickleball, Adams continues to keep fans guessing about his future.
What’s Next for Rodney Adams?
Adams’ journey is just beginning. While his athleticism and experience in high-speed sports give him an edge, professional pickleball demands quick reflexes, precise technique, and endurance. If he successfully makes the transition, he could open doors for other former NFL players looking to enter the sport.
Whether his pickleball ambitions lead to success or another career change, Adams’ story is a testament to his relentless competitive spirit.
News in Brief: From NFL to Pickleball
Former NFL wide receiver Rodney Adams is training to join the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), becoming the first ex-NFL player to do so. Adams initially signed with a pro ultimate frisbee team but left after three weeks to pursue pickleball full-time. He is now training with top professionals in Colorado.
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