NFL Stars Are Switching to Pickleball: Former NFL player Jeret Smith has traded football for pickleball, now aiming to go pro in the fast-growing sport. Smith plays across Colorado Springs and trains at Life Time, where he and others are pushing the limits of competitive pickleball, including during National Pickleball Month events.
From the NFL to Pickleball Courts
Jeret Smith, who played for the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs, is now chasing a new dream—professional pickleball. After retiring from football, he began playing casually but quickly became hooked on the sport’s intensity and challenge.
If you’re looking to stay competitive and to get that competitive edge back, then I recommend getting out here and playing some pickleball because there’s nothing better than pickleball right now. Best sport alive right now.” – (Smith)
He now plays regularly across the Front Range and practices at Life Time in Colorado Springs.
A Growing Community of Competitive Players
Life Time Pickleball pro Mike McGregor has seen the game grow and is excited to welcome new athletes like Smith.
“It’s been incredible to see the ride pickleball has taken us all on.” – (McGregor)
As part of National Pickleball Month, Life Time is hosting its “Agassi Open Play Day” on Saturday at 10 a.m. to set a record for the most players playing at once. Non-members can join by signing up on the app and getting a day pass. The club is also preparing for its upcoming “Dinco De Mayo” tournament, set for May 16–18.
Why Pickleball Stuck With Smith
Smith’s start in pickleball came with a surprise.
“I wanted to just play something that I could stay competitive in, and first I was like, ‘Oh, this is just a sport for older people.’ They beat me bad! And so, for me, I’m an athlete, and I’m losing to 70-year-old people, and I was like, ‘I’ve got to get better at this sport.'” – (Smith)
Now, his focus is set on mastering the game and competing at higher levels.
What it Means for Pickleball’s Future
Smith’s move to pickleball shows how seriously athletes are now taking the sport. As more pros make the switch, the game could see faster growth, more fans, and bigger tournaments. With events like National Pickleball Month drawing attention, the sport’s rise is far from over.
News in Brief: NFL Stars Are Switching to Pickleball
Former NFL player Jeret Smith is turning to pro pickleball after finding challenge and fun in the game. Now based in Colorado Springs, he plays at Life Time, which is celebrating National Pickleball Month with events like “Agassi Open Play Day” and the “Dinco De Mayo” tournament in May.
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