Maryland Hosting NFL Players for NFLPA Externship
3/9/2015 12:00:00 AM | Terrapin Athletics
COLLEGE PARK, Md.— For the second consecutive year, the University of Maryland Athletic Department is hosting current NFL players in conjunction with the annual NFLPA Externship.
“The University of Maryland athletics department is proud to once again open its doors to the NFLPA Externship program,” said Maryland director of athletics Kevin Anderson. “The program has been mutually beneficial to both players involved, Jacques McClendon and Cam Johnson, and our entire athletics staff. We are thrilled about the relationship we have continued to strengthen with the NFLPA, and look forward to future endeavors.”
Aimed at providing current and transitioning NFL players the opportunity to gain comprehensive experience in fields they are interested in pursuing after football, the program immerses participants in various organizations for three weeks in the off season. The University of Maryland Athletic department, amongst other organizations, has provided a number of players with unique experiences as part of the externship.
“Being able to work alongside the NFLPA and participate in the externship experience has been a wonderful opportunity for both the players we host as well as the athletic department,” Deputy Director of Athletics/Chief Operating Officer Kelly Mehrtens said. “Giving back to former student-athletes is important to Maryland Athletics. The players we've hosted are very knowledgeable, hard workers and have contributed significantly to our department in their time here.”
McClendon (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Johnson (Indianapolis Colts) have been gaining hands-on experience this year by diving into day-to-day operations. The two have been shadowing executives, contributing in department meetings, compiling bowl data and working alongside leadership positions. McClendon and Johnson have also assisted in the development, marketing, business and academic departments as well.
“The experience at Maryland has really been a diverse opportunity for us,” said McClendon. “The best thing [Maryland] has let us do is explore all departments. It really gives us a hands-on experience of the inner workings of a major intercollegiate athletic program.”
Maryland alumni A.J. Francis participated in the NFLPA Externship with the Maryland Athletic department in 2014. Francis, a 2012 Maryland graduate, played football for the Terps from 2008-2012. He is currently a member of the Miami Dolphins.
“Maryland has really embraced us as a part of the athletic department,” Johnson said. “We are used to spending time on the field and in the locker room. Getting the chance to be a part of the other side of the equation really makes this a well-rounded experience.”
-Maryland-
