LEXINGTON — The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) released the fourth episode of its AthleteAnd YouTube series on Thursday, spotlighting Houston Texans tight end Cade Stover.
The episode highlights Stover’s love for farming, which led him to purchase his own cattle ranch near his hometown.
Earlier this year, the Lexington graduate finalized a deal to buy the cattle ranch — a property that holds deep sentimental value.
“[A picture of this farm] has been my screensaver since high school,” Stover said. “Every
time I open that phone up, I just know this is what I’m working for.
“I was in tears when I bought this place because it’s something I’ve wanted my whole entire life.”
In the video, the former Ohio State Buckeye walks through the process of purchasing the ranch, located just three miles from where he grew up on his family’s farm.
He also gives an inside look at his equipment, cattle and the daily routines that keep his ranch running — demonstrating how his dedication to football and farming fuel one another.
Stover’s story serves as an inspiring example of how athletes can channel their passions into purposeful pursuits beyond the game, balancing the demands of professional football with the fulfillment of personal dreams.
The AthleteAnd campaign, originally launched in 2018, celebrates the multi-dimensional lives of NFL players and empowers them to share their stories beyond the game.
This year’s new YouTube series, made in partnership with award-winning creative studio HEARTLENT Group, features exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage and player-led conversations that dive into the diverse identities and off-field ambitions of NFLPA members.
Denver Broncos cornerback and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II was featured in this season’s first episode, followed by Houston Texans rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel and Packers tight end Luke Musgrave.
(Photos courtesy of the National Football League Players Association)
About the NFL Players Association
The National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the NFL and headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Established in 1956, the NFLPA has a long history of protecting the health, safety and financial future of its more than 2,000 player members, who are the backbone of North America’s most popular and highest revenue-generating sport.
Through a wide offering of programs, resources and engagement opportunities, the NFLPA provides world-class service to players throughout their career lifecycle and builds solidarity to advocate on their behalf in the areas of healthcare, revenue, compensation and working conditions.
The current CBA will govern the sport through the 2030 season. Learn more at nflpa.com/about.