NFL Stars With Sleep Apnea
Did you know that roughly 1/3 of NFL players suffer from sleep apnea?1 That statistic may be surprising, but it makes sense that the size and strength required to be a pro-football player can also increase health problems off the field.
However, with the help of their CPAP treatment, NFL stars with sleep apnea were still able to be at the top of their game. Here’s a list of some of the greatest NFL athletes who were diagnosed with sleep apnea!
Key takeaways
- Roughly one-third of NFL players have sleep apnea — the size and strength of pro athletes can raise the risk.
- Ryan Jensen credits CPAP therapy with saving his NFL career after just one month of treatment.
- Hall-of-famers Brett Favre and Warren Sapp managed sleep apnea while playing at the highest level.
- Reggie White’s story is a sobering reminder of why untreated sleep apnea should never be ignored.
The players
Ryan Jensen
“I honestly think that if I wouldn’t have got diagnosed and caught it within time, I wouldn’t be in the NFL anymore.”2
— Ryan JensenAt the beginning of his NFL career, Jensen was losing his strength and feeling restless after a full 8 hours of sleep. This affected his performance, and resulted in him being cut from the Baltimore Ravens’ roster. Jensen father suggested he get tested for sleep apnea. After just one month of sleep therapy, Jensen grew stronger and returned to the Ravens.
Whether your career depends on CPAP like Jensen, it’s safe to say your life wouldn’t be the same without it. That’s why health insurance often covers essential sleep therapy supplies.
Check your insurance Shop CPAP MasksBrett Favre
During his 16 seasons with the Packers, Brett Favre was the first and only NFL player to win three consecutive AP MVP awards, and helped his team win Super Bowl XXXI. He would not have been able to lead his team to victory if he didn’t use his CPAP.
Reggie White
NFL legend, aka the “Minister of Defense,” played defensive end for 15 seasons and 13 consecutive Pro Bowls. White passed in his sleep at the young age of 43 due to his untreated sleep apnea.3
Warren Sapp
7-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Warren Sapp was honored NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1999. He struggled with poor sleep for years before seeking treatment. Since then, he has “made a firm commitment to prevent undiagnosed sleep apnea from threatening my life and the lives of millions like me.”4
Using a CPAP is the first step to maintaining your health. It’s also important to routinely clean your CPAP equipment for the most effective sleep therapy.
Could sleep apnea be holding you back?
You don’t have to be a pro athlete to benefit from better sleep. Find out where you stand with a simple home sleep test.
Home sleep testFrequently asked questions
How common is sleep apnea among NFL players?
Roughly one-third of NFL players are affected by sleep apnea. The size and strength required to play professional football can also increase the risk of health problems like sleep apnea off the field.
Which NFL stars have had sleep apnea?
Notable players who were diagnosed with sleep apnea include Ryan Jensen, Brett Favre, Reggie White and Warren Sapp. Several credit CPAP therapy with helping them perform at the top of their game.
Can CPAP therapy really improve athletic performance?
Treating sleep apnea restores deep, restorative sleep, which supports strength, energy and recovery. Ryan Jensen says that after just one month of sleep therapy he grew stronger and returned to the Ravens’ roster.
Does insurance cover sleep therapy supplies?
Health insurance often covers essential sleep therapy supplies. You can check your own coverage to see what sleep apnea equipment and supplies may be included.
Sources
Apnée Santé provides this online information for education and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published here is not intended to replace a consultation with a physician regarding your medical care.
