NFL Legend Jimbo Covert Scores Big in Second Career

Former Chicago Bears offensive tackle finds success in healthcare and private equity after football

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:19am

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James Paul "Jimbo" Covert, a former offensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, has found remarkable success in his post-NFL career. After retiring from football, Covert transitioned into the healthcare industry, eventually becoming president and CEO of the Institute for Transfusion Medicine. He has also taken on a role with the private equity firm Cressey & Co., leveraging the skills he developed as a professional athlete to excel in the corporate world.

Why it matters

Covert's story highlights a growing trend among former NFL players who are finding tremendous success in second careers, often in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. The discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking that made them successful on the field are highly valued in the corporate world, and many are using their extensive professional networks to open doors to new opportunities.

The details

Covert's transition from the gridiron to the boardroom wasn't an isolated incident. Many former NFL players are finding success in a variety of industries, leveraging the skills they developed as athletes. Qualities like dedication, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure are highly sought after in the business world. Covert credits his network and mentorship from figures like Vern Loucks, the former Chairman and CEO of Baxter International, as key to his smooth transition.

  • Covert was born on March 22nd.
  • He recently won the Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational golf tournament.

The players

Jimbo Covert

A former offensive tackle for the Chicago Bears who has found success in the healthcare industry and private equity after retiring from the NFL.

Vern Loucks

The former Chairman and CEO of Baxter International, who mentored Covert during his transition to the corporate world.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

Covert's story is a testament to the growing trend of former NFL players finding tremendous success in second careers, often in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. The skills they developed as athletes, such as dedication, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure, are highly valued in the corporate world, and many are leveraging their extensive professional networks to open doors to new opportunities.