NFL and NFLPA Launch Behavioral Health Network to Expand Confidential Mental Health Access for Players
核心洞察
The NFL (搜索) and NFL Players Association (搜索) jointly announced a Behavioral Health Network launching Sept. 1, expanding confidential outpatient mental health support for current and former players and their eligible dependents.
Administered by Cigna Healthcare (搜索), the network covers every NFL (搜索) market and provides outpatient services at 100% with no coinsurance and no visit limits.
A dedicated Behavioral Health Navigation Team will assist participants with provider searches, appointment availability, and benefit questions to remove barriers to care.
The National Football League (NFL (搜索)) and NFL Players Association (搜索) (NFLPA) jointly announced the Sept. 1 launch of the Behavioral Health Network (BHN), an enhancement to the NFL Player Insurance Plan that expands access to confidential outpatient behavioral health support for eligible current and former players and their eligible dependents. The announcement, made on August 26, 2026, follows a preview of the initiative at the Annual League Meeting in March.
Administered by Cigna Healthcare (搜索), the BHN combines a nationwide network of behavioral health providers with dedicated care navigation services designed to support the unique needs of current and former players and their families. Beginning Sept. 1, eligible participants will have access to a network of providers inclusive of every NFL (搜索) market, selected by NFL and NFLPA stakeholders based on their experience serving the distinct needs of the NFL community.
Coverage and Access
Outpatient services provided through the BHN are covered at 100%, with no participant coinsurance and no visit limits. Participants will also have access to personalized support through a dedicated Behavioral Health Navigation Team that can assist with provider searches, appointment availability, and benefit questions.
"The goal of the Behavioral Health Network is to make it easier for players and their families to access clinical support," said Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti, NFL (搜索) vice president of wellness and clinical services. "Our priority is to remove barriers to care and ensure that members of the NFL community can quickly identify and connect with trusted mental health providers. By simplifying and streamlining the process to find high-quality mental health services, we hope this enhancement will improve delivery of care and support better wellness related outcomes."
Prioritizing Mental and Emotional Well-Being
"Just as we prioritize protecting the physical health of our player members, we believe mental and emotional well-being are critical to a player's ability to thrive on and off the field," said Dr. Amber Cargill, NFLPA director of player wellness. "Every player's needs are different. The Behavioral Health Network marks an important step in expanding access to trusted care for players and their families while continuing to build a culture where seeking support is encouraged."
Relationship to Existing Coverage
The Behavioral Health Network enhances existing behavioral health coverage available through the NFL (搜索) Player Insurance Plan and does not replace current coverage or restrict an individual's choice of provider. Eligible participants may continue receiving care from their preferred providers if they choose. The establishment of the BHN builds on the NFL and NFLPA's ongoing efforts to strengthen behavioral health resources and support for players and their families.
For more information, eligible current or former players and dependents can visit nflplayerbenefits.com or contact either the NFL (搜索) Player Benefits Department or the NFLPA.