Former Jets offensive lineman D’Brickashaw Ferguson’s first job required him to protect and save quarterbacks from being sacked. His second job is similar, but will help a lot more people.
According to Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Gabriella Carroll, Ferguson graduated in May from Jefferson University in Philadelphia with a nursing degree, lining him up to be the third generation in his family to go into nursing. His grandmother and mother both entered the profession.
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Carroll reported that Ferguson spent time with the Jets as a strength and conditioning intern but decided to take a different path.
“Transitioning from football, I needed a new identity,” Ferguson told Carroll. “I needed something that would allow me to serve my greater community in a unique way. After talking with my mom, primarily during that COVID period, she suggested that I take a look at nursing.”
Ferguson also said his playing career helped him prepare for his nursing degree.
“You practice, you prepare, but in the game, you have to respond to what’s happening in addition to what you already know,” Ferguson said. “I think that ability to think through things is similar in some respects to nursing, where you develop a foundation, you have a sense of background and understanding. But now this patient’s presenting in a certain way, and you need to respond accordingly.”
Ferguson was selected by the Jets as the fourth overall pick in the 2006 draft. He played his entire 10-season career with the team, appearing in 160 games and earning three Pro Bowl selections. He was inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022.
Chris Franklin may be reached at cfranklin@njadvancemedia.com.