Clyde Edwards-Helaire: Balancing NFL Stardom and Nursing Aspirations
Clyde Edwards-Helaire: A Dual Passion for Football and Nursing
Clyde Edwards-Helaire has made a name for himself in the NFL, reaching the playoffs every year over his four-season career. Off the field, however, he’s also pursuing another passion—nursing, inspired by a deep family connection. His journey is a testament to his dedication both on and off the field, as he balances a demanding professional football career with his studies in nursing.
From the Gridiron to the Classroom: The Nursing Journey Begins
Edwards-Helaire’s interest in nursing isn’t just a fleeting curiosity; it’s rooted in family inspiration and personal experiences. His mother, Tongelia Helaire, is a nurse who served in the Army before pursuing her medical career. Watching her dedication to the healthcare field left a lasting impact on him. Additionally, his sister Maddee, born with muscular dystrophy, defied medical expectations under his mother’s care, which further fueled his desire to enter the healthcare profession.
In a TikTok post from the Kansas City Chiefs, Edwards-Helaire revealed his motivation behind returning to school: “I’m back in school for nursing… so I can handle any medical emergencies.” This drive to help others in a tangible way underscores his commitment to making a difference beyond the football field.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s NFL Record: A Player with Proven Impact
Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Edwards-Helaire quickly made an impact. He scored his first NFL touchdown in his debut game and concluded his rookie season with 803 rushing yards and 297 receiving yards, earning the respect of his teammates who voted him the best rookie in 2020.
His prowess on the field has been instrumental in helping the Chiefs reach the playoffs each year. In 2022, the team won the Super Bowl, although Edwards-Helaire, coming off an injury, saw limited action. Despite this, his contributions during practice, including stepping in as a wide receiver, were vital to the team’s preparation and success. Reflecting on his role, he said, “I did everything that I need to do in order for us to win that game.”
As his current contract with the Chiefs approaches its end, Edwards-Helaire will enter free agency in 2024, leaving his future in the NFL uncertain. However, whether on the field or in the healthcare field, his determination remains unwavering.
A Family Legacy: The Heart Behind the Nursing Career
Edwards-Helaire’s decision to pursue nursing is deeply personal. His mother’s journey in the medical field and his sister’s battle with muscular dystrophy have profoundly influenced him. Maddee, now 16, not only survived but thrived against all odds, becoming a local ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This close connection to healthcare has shaped Edwards-Helaire’s understanding of the profession’s importance and his desire to contribute.
“Football is football, but I know for my profession what I want to do,” Edwards-Helaire stated in January 2024, emphasizing that his aspirations in nursing are as important to him as his athletic career.
Balancing Two Demanding Careers: The Challenges and Rewards
Managing a career in the NFL while attending nursing school is no small feat. Scheduling conflicts initially prevented Edwards-Helaire from pursuing nursing during his college years at Louisiana State University (LSU). However, in 2023, with more time on his hands early in the season, he decided to start his nursing studies.
“Just felt like I had a little bit more time at the beginning of the season, just wasn’t playing that much, so I was like, ‘Cool, I’m gonna start school,’” he shared in an interview. Balancing the rigors of NFL life with the demands of nursing school requires intense focus and discipline, something Edwards-Helaire is familiar with from his athletic training.
He also credits his fiancée, JoJo O’Conner, for helping him manage the hectic schedule, acknowledging the challenges but expressing gratitude for her support.
Looking Ahead: A Future in Healthcare
Regardless of where his NFL career takes him, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is poised for a bright future in healthcare. His passion for nursing is as strong as his drive on the football field. As he jokingly told reporters, “In the future, if y’all need some shots or IVs or anything, holler at your boy.”
Whether he continues to make plays on the field or moves on to making a difference in the medical world, Edwards-Helaire’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping others.