Only 23% of retirees feel very confident they can maintain a comfortable lifestyle once they step off the field and into retirement. The rest are navigating life on a fixed income, hoping to avoid any unexpected hits—like the cost of long-term care.

Even elite athletes aren’t immune. Sports Illustrated reports 78% of NFL players face financial trouble within two years of retirement. Careers are short—NFL players average 3.3 years in the league, and it’s only slightly longer in other major sports. Many simply aren’t prepared for what happens after the lights go out.