What a shocking new NFL survey reveals about life for players’ families

NFL teams are being watched closely, not just for wins and losses, but for how they treat players’ families. A recent survey from the NFL Players Association has opened eyes across the league. Some teams got top marks, while others scored poorly. But what does “treatment of families” really mean? And why does it matter so much to players? The feedback has already pushed many teams to make big changes.Jessie Bates III, a former safety with the Cincinnati Bengals now with the Atlanta Falcons, claimed his perspective had completely turned around. To see his family, he had to leave the arena following every home game in Cincinnati. But now, in Atlanta, he meets them in a private suite at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with food and a comfortable place to talk.“I think that’s what separates us,” Bates told ESPN in February 2025, after the NFLPA released its second annual player survey. The Falcons earned an A in family treatment. The Bengals received the lowest possible grade, F-minus. Presently playing for the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones praised his side. According to Jones, Viking staff ask every week whether players have family visiting, assist setup accommodations, tickets, and even give sideline passes. “It’s no stress,” he said. “I know they’re in good hands.”Ryan Kelly, who signed with the Vikings in 2025 after nine seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, said the survey helped him decide where to go. “If you treat my family well, I’ll be happier as a person and as a player,” Kelly said. His new team made his family feel welcome within 24 hours.But not all players feel that way. Joel Bitonio, a veteran lineman for the Cleveland Browns, said players’ families have to meet in a parking lot tent, even in cold weather. The Browns earned a D-plus grade. “The coaches’ families get to stay inside. We’re outside for five minutes,” Bitonio told ESPN.The Los Angeles Rams, Dallas Cowboys, and Jacksonville Jaguars are also making changes. The Cowboys created a “family ice cream time,” while the Jaguars and Rams are adding more family-friendly services this season.Also Read: Aaron Jones Luxurious Lifestyle: Expensive Properties, Net Worth, Car Collections And MoreAccording to the NFLPA, these surveys were taken from August to November 2024, with responses from over 1,600 players. The NFL has asked the Players Association not to contact teams directly, but many teams are now acting on the feedback anyway.