Bernie Kosar from Kosar Wellness joined Karisa Maxwell and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at the Super Bowl. Bernie shared his insight into the importance of athlete health and wellness, particularly focusing on the challenges that players face after their professional careers. Drawing from his own experiences as a former NFL quarterback, he discussed the physical and mental toll of the game and the need for better long-term care for athletes.
Bernie Kosar
Bernie Kosar is a former NFL quarterback, best known for his time with the Cleveland Browns during the 1980s and early 1990s. Born in 1963, Kosar played college football at the University of Miami, where he led the Hurricanes to a national championship in 1983. His intelligence on the field and ability to read defenses made him a standout player, leading to his selection by the Browns in the 1985 Supplemental Draft. He quickly became a fan favorite in Cleveland, known for his unique throwing motion, toughness, and ability to deliver in clutch moments.
During his tenure with the Browns, Kosar led the team to multiple playoff appearances, including three AFC Championship Games (1986, 1987, and 1989). His leadership and strategic playmaking were instrumental in the team’s success, even though they fell short of reaching the Super Bowl. However, injuries and coaching changes eventually led to his controversial release in 1993. Kosar later joined the Dallas Cowboys, where he won a Super Bowl ring (Super Bowl XXVIII) as a backup before finishing his career with the Miami Dolphins in 1996.
Post-retirement, Kosar has remained involved in football and business ventures. He has worked as a sports broadcaster and analyst while also pursuing entrepreneurial efforts, including Kosar Wellness, which focuses on health and wellness solutions. Despite facing financial and personal challenges after his playing career, Kosar has continued to be a respected figure in the football community. His legacy remains strong in Cleveland, where he is still celebrated as one of the franchise’s most beloved quarterbacks.
Kosar Wellness
Kosar19.com is the official website of Bernie Kosar, the former NFL quarterback renowned for his tenure with the Cleveland Browns. The site serves as a comprehensive platform where fans and followers can explore various facets of Kosar’s post-football endeavors. Visitors are greeted with insights into his personal journey, health advocacy, and the latest media appearances, reflecting his commitment to sharing experiences and promoting wellness.
A notable feature of Kosar19.com is its diverse online store, offering products that resonate with Kosar’s interests and advocacy. The store includes Kosar Wellness items, such as health supplements and wellness products, alongside Bernie Kosar Coffee, memorabilia, apparel, and books. This curated selection allows fans to connect with Kosar’s lifestyle and support his initiatives.
Beyond merchandise, the website provides access to Kosar’s latest media engagements, including videos, podcasts, and radio interviews. These segments offer deeper insights into his perspectives on health, wellness, and life after professional sports. Additionally, fans can request personalized messages through the Cameo platform, further enhancing engagement. also highlights upcoming events and collaborations, reflecting Kosar’s ongoing commitment to community involvement and public speaking.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – 0:07 – Karisa Maxwell introduces Bernie Kosar and acknowledges his presence at the Super Bowl, highlighting his good health and energy.
0:26 – 0:43 – Kosar shares how he was mistakenly reported as deceased weeks prior and reflects on surviving 60 surgeries, 80 broken bones, 100 concussions, and 15 seizures.
1:09 – 1:39 – Kosar discusses the struggles of pain management and mental health, particularly for athletes and others dealing with chronic injuries.
1:57 – 2:35 – Despite severe injuries and cognitive decline, Kosar expresses that he does not regret playing football, seeing it as part of his destiny and a platform to advocate for health and wellness.
3:00 – 3:34 – He shares alarming statistics about opioid overdoses and suicide rates, noting that 19 people die by suicide per day in Ohio, emphasizing the importance of alternative health solutions.
3:52 – 4:37 – Kosar recalls losing many friends, including former teammates Junior Seau and Bob Dole, to suicide, and emphasizes the need to talk about mental health and holistic treatments.
4:56 – 5:29 – He acknowledges that the NFL has reduced concussions by 177% through protective gear and new regulations, but believes more needs to be done to protect players.
6:40 – 7:00 – Kosar discusses how repeated subconcussive hits accumulate over time, leading to severe cognitive and neurological issues later in life.
7:28 – 8:02 – He challenges the stigma that men must always be strong, advocating for open discussions about anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles.
9:24 – 9:50 – Kosar humorously shares how he has shifted from an unhealthy diet to embracing nutritious foods and holistic wellness, encouraging others to adopt healthier habits.
