Sleep Apnea Allstars: Pro Football Players Breaking the Silence
Dr. Martin Hopp MD, ENT
Sleep apnea and snoring are often misunderstood as issues that only affect older adults or those with certain health conditions. However, professional football players—known for their peak physical fitness—have increasingly come forward to share their struggles with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. Their openness not only helps raise awareness but also shatters the stigma surrounding sleep disordered breathing.
The Prevalence of Sleep Apnea in the NFL
According to a 2009 study by the Mayo Clinic, 46% of players in the NFL and 60% of linemen suffer from sleep apnea. This statistic underscores how widespread the condition is, even among elite athletes, and the critical need for awareness and proactive treatment.
Pro Football Players Who Have Spoken Out
Several NFL players have publicly shared their experiences with sleep apnea, underscoring the importance of diagnosis and treatment. Minnesota Vikings star Percy Harvin, known for his speed and agility, revealed that sleep apnea triggered debilitating migraines which impacted his performance and well-being. Ryan Jensen, Tampa Bay Buccaneers center, has openly shared that his sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment improved his sleep quality and ultimately saved his career. The late Reggie White, Hall of Famer and defensive end, tragically passed away due to complications from untreated sleep apnea. In his honor, the Reggie White Foundation now works to raise awareness about the dangers of ignoring the condition.
These are just a few of many players who have discussed how sleep apnea negatively impacted their health and these athletes' stories highlight an important fact: even those in top physical condition can suffer from sleep-disordered breathing.
Why Fitness Doesn’t Guarantee Healthy Sleep
It's a common misconception that being in great shape means you're immune to conditions like OSA. Factors such as neck circumference, airway anatomy, and even genetics can contribute to sleep apnea, regardless of body weight or athleticism. In fact, football players, especially linemen, often have larger necks and muscle mass, which can increase the risk of airway obstruction during sleep.
The Performance Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea
For athletes, quality sleep is critical for recovery, reaction time, mental clarity, and overall performance. Untreated OSA can lead to:
- Decreased stamina and endurance
- Slower reaction times
- Impaired focus and decision-making
- Increased risk of injury due to fatigue
Treatment not only reduces these risks but can significantly enhance both physical and cognitive performance. Improved oxygen levels during sleep lead to better recovery, more energy, and heightened mental sharpness—benefits that are just as valuable for non-athletes.
Daybreak: Convenient At-Home Testing and Treatment
At Daybreak, we understand the importance of accessible, effective solutions for sleep disorders. That's why we offer a fully at-home, convenient process for diagnosing and treating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Our FDA-cleared, custom-made oral devices are designed to improve sleep quality without the need for bulky machines or invasive procedures.
If you suspect you might be suffering from sleep apnea or if snoring is impacting your life, don't wait. There's no shame in getting a sleep test done—even the strongest athletes need quality sleep to perform their best. Let Daybreak help you breathe easier, sleep better, and live healthier.