Willie Colon is a former American football guard who played 12 seasons in the National Football League (NFL) for the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and won two Super Bowls with the Steelers. Since retiring from the NFL in 2013, Colon has pursued various endeavors, including working as an analyst for sports media, getting involved in business ventures, and staying connected to football through coaching.
Working as an Analyst for Sports Media
After retiring from professional football in 2013, Willie Colon began working as an analyst for sports media outlets. He provided commentary on programs like CBS Sports Network’s Thursday Night Football and SiriusXM NFL Radio. Colon brought unique insights into the game as a recently retired player. He could break down film and analyze on-field performance in ways that resonated with both players and fans. His outspoken style translated well to television and radio. Colon has been praised for his honest, thoughtful analysis of teams, players, coaches and front office personnel.
In the 2019 season, Colon joined ESPN as an NFL analyst appearing on shows like Get Up! and First Take. He balances his blunt critiques with humor and charisma. On shows like First Take, Colon engages in lively debates about the latest NFL news and controversies. His battle-tested experience from years in the trenches gives him credibility when discussing issues like offensive line play and protection schemes. Colon’s coverage has expanded beyond just the NFL – in 2020, he provided analysis of the new XFL football league for ESPN. Fans appreciate his insight and the passion he brings as an analyst.
Pursuing Business Ventures
In addition to sports media, Willie Colon has pursued business ventures ranging from real estate to restaurants since retiring from football. In 2016, he opened a real estate brokerage in New Jersey called Adapt Development. The company focuses on residential and commercial projects, including new developments and renovations. Colon tapped into the skills he developed through investing in real estate during his playing career. His continued involvement in the New Jersey community has helped Adapt Development build connections and secure projects.
Colon has also focused efforts on the restaurant industry. In 2018, he became an investor and spokesperson for La Ricetta, an Italian restaurant in New Jersey owned by fellow former NFL player Nolan Harrison. Colon’s engagement with the restaurant goes beyond just investing money – he actively promotes La Ricetta through social media and public appearances. Colon has said he looks forward to expanding and franchising the restaurant concept in coming years. The hands-on role allows him to express his passion for food and dining establishments.
In addition to real estate and restaurants, Colon has extended his entrepreneurial interests to areas like apparel. He launched a clothing brand called Willie Colon Clothing in 2016, starting with a line of hats and T-shirts. Colon aims to create stylish athletic and casual wear. The brand allows him to make a mark on the fashion industry. Across his variety of business ventures, Colon has proven he has an eye for generating opportunities outside of football.
Staying Involved in Football through Coaching
While no longer a professional player, Willie Colon has stayed involved in the sport of football through coaching opportunities at both the college and pro levels. Just months after retiring in 2013, he began serving as an offseason coaching intern for the Pittsburgh Steelers, his original NFL team. Colon helped coach the offensive linemen during spring training sessions. Sharing wisdom from his 10 seasons with the Steelers offered invaluable perspective for younger players. Colon cherished the chance to give back to the organization where he started his career.
In 2016, Colon expanded his coaching role by joining the staff at New Jersey’s Kean University. He worked with the offensive linemen on the Division III program while completing his undergraduate degree at the school. Colon relished the opportunity to mentor the next generation of players. He brought a studious approach to breaking down film and developing blocking schemes. The college players gained exposure to methods used at football’s highest level.
The NFL came calling again in 2019 when Colon reunited with former Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley on the coaching staff of the Cleveland Browns. Colon served as an assistant offensive line coach, concentrating on mentoring a young group headed by former second overall pick Greg Robinson. Colon leaned on his 12 years of pro experience in technique and preparation. Though no longer suiting up himself, he got to remain involved strategizing and contributing to an NFL team’s success.
Staying Visible through Social Media and Other Platforms
One way Willie Colon has maintained connections to fans and the broader football community in retirement is through consistent engagement on social media platforms. He is active on both Instagram and Twitter, posting photos from his TV analyst work, business ventures, family life, and more. Colon engages in real-time interactions during football games, providing live commentary on plays and league issues. He remains approachable and down-to-earth when responding to fans online.
Beyond just social media, Colon has looked to increase his visibility through other platforms like podcasting. In 2021, he helped launch a weekly podcast covering the New York Jets called Flight 2022. Colon provides a former player’s perspective on the team’s rebuild and development. The podcast provides an entertaining outlet to continue discussing his passion for football.
Willie Colon has also looked to connect with the public through philanthropic work. In 2012 while still an active player, he founded a non-profit called Willie Colon’s Offensive Line Foundation. It provides financial grants, mentoring, and education support to youth and schools in New Jersey. Colon has continued these community efforts in retirement through events, donations, and serving as a role model. Staying involved in causes beyond football remains a priority.
Spending Time with Family and Taking Care of Personal Health
Balancing drive in high-profile careers with family time and personal health has emerged as a focus for Willie Colon in retirement from professional football. He has emphasized that while he still grinds in competitive roles like sports media and business, he sets aside moments for his loved ones. Colon married his wife Krysten in 2014 shortly after leaving the NFL. They have three young daughters together that remain the center of Colon’s world.
On a personal health level, Colon has been open about his struggles with obesity, sleep apnea and hypertension as consequences of life in the NFL trenches. He lost nearly 50 pounds using portion control and workout regiments like CrossFit after retirement. Colon has said the weight loss helped him gain energy and alleviate dangerous conditions like sleep apnea. He knows he must find ways to maintain wellness for the long term. Making family and health top priorities gives balance to his driven personality.
Conclusion
Willie Colon has approached retirement from professional football with the same tireless work ethic and multi-faceted interests that defined his playing career. He has transitioned into roles like sports media analyst, real estate developer, restauranteur, brand entrepreneur and football coach. Colon also makes connecting with fans and giving back to the community a focus through platforms like social media and his foundation. Balancing his relentless drive with family time and personal health has been crucial. At just 38 years old, Colon figures to continue having an impact across many fields beyond just the football field.