Drew Brees, known for his legendary career as a quarterback in the NFL, has successfully transitioned into the world of business post-retirement. While many former athletes look to continue their legacy through various ventures, Brees has chosen to focus on a specific path: franchising. 

With his strategic investments in multiple successful brands, Brees exemplifies how former NFL players in franchising can leverage their athletic success and entrepreneurial spirit to build lasting business empires. Through a combination of passion, discipline, and smart investment decisions, Brees has expanded his portfolio well beyond the football field.

From the Gridiron to Franchise Investments

Drew Brees played 20 seasons in the NFL, achieving legendary status with the New Orleans Saints. However, he didn't wait until his retirement to explore business ventures. The interest in franchising was sparked long before he hung up his cleats. Today, Brees has built a robust portfolio that spans across several industries, including food services, fitness, and wellness.

One of the key elements that sets Brees apart from other athletes in franchising is his focus on multi-unit ownership. He isn't just a single-franchise owner; Brees has taken a long-term approach to building wealth through his investments in various brands.

Brees' Franchise Portfolio

Everbowl: The Power of Superfoods

In 2021, Brees partnered with Everbowl, a fast-casual superfood concept that allows customers to build bowls with nourishing ingredients like acai, matcha, and chia seeds. As an investor, franchisee, and brand ambassador, Brees is an integral part of Everbowl's expansion. 

His deep commitment to health and wellness, both as an athlete and an advocate, aligns perfectly with the company's mission.

By 2022, Brees had expanded his involvement with Everbowl to 85 locations across multiple states. He emphasized how the natural ingredients used in Everbowl's offerings play a crucial role in enhancing performance and overall well-being, which resonates with his own lifestyle and experience as an athlete.

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux: A Louisiana Classic

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, a 63-unit sports bar chain with a Louisiana twist, became another of Brees' key investments. After his first visit to a Walk-On's location in New Orleans, Brees knew that if he ever opened a restaurant, it would have to be similar. 

By 2015, he joined the brand as a co-owner, cementing his connection to the company. For Brees, owning a piece of Walk-On's was more than just an investment—it was a way to bring something he believed in to his hometown, aligning his love for the region with his entrepreneurial spirit.

Stretch Zone: Wellness and Recovery

Having long understood the benefits of physical wellness, Brees invested in Stretch Zone, a unique concept that offers a stretching experience designed to improve mobility and muscle recovery. Opening a Stretch Zone in New Orleans in 2021, Brees brought his own knowledge of athletic recovery to the business. This investment aligns with his personal experience of stretching's positive impact on both athletic performance and quality of life.

Dunkin' and Jimmy John's: The Food Industry Footprint

Drew Brees has also built a significant presence in the food service industry. In 2017, he signed a deal to bring 69 Dunkin' locations to Louisiana, helping expand the brand's presence in the state. 

Additionally, Brees has a strong connection with Jimmy John's, where he owns nine units. His love for the brand started during college, and he continued to invest in it after settling in Louisiana. Today, his restaurants rank among the top performers in the Jimmy John's system.

Athletes as Franchise Owners: A Growing Trend

Drew Brees is far from the only former athlete to venture into franchising. Across professional sports, many athletes are turning to franchising as a way to secure financial success after their playing careers end. The transition into franchising provides a path for former athletes to build businesses based on proven systems while benefiting from their personal brand recognition.

Whether it's basketball legends like Shaquille O'Neal, who owns franchises in Five Guys, Auntie Anne's, and Krispy Kreme, or NFL stars like Brees, athletes are increasingly finding franchising to be a smart move for long-term wealth creation. 

The beauty of franchising lies in its potential for scaling, and athletes are often in a unique position to leverage their fame and experience to build profitable ventures.

Franthlete: Helping Athletes Thrive in Franchising

For athletes looking to follow in the footsteps of Drew Brees, Franthlete offers valuable resources and guidance. As a platform dedicated to helping former athletes transition into the world of franchising, Franthlete connects them with successful franchise opportunities and provides the tools needed to succeed in business. 

Whether it's managing a multi-unit franchise or diving into a brand-new industry, Franthlete equips athletes with the knowledge and support to thrive as franchise owners.

Take the First Step

If you're a former athlete looking to make a smooth transition into the world of franchising, Franthlete can help you take that next step. Their extensive network of franchising opportunities and expert advice makes it easier than ever to start building your business empire.

Start your franchising journey today with Franthlete and build the future you deserve.