From NFL Star to Drag Strip King? Fletcher Cox’s Wild Post-Retirement Plans Revealed!

After 12 dominant seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, Fletcher Cox retired in 2024 as one of the most respected defensive linemen in NFL history. A Super Bowl champion, six-time Pro Bowler, and four-time All-Pro, Cox left the game with a legacy few could match. But instead of settling into a quiet retirement, Cox is revving up for a bold new chapter—one that involves burning rubber and roaring engines.

Longtime fans might be surprised to learn that Cox’s true passion lies in drag racing. This love for speed was sparked in his childhood in Yazoo City, Mississippi, thanks to his older brother Shaddrick. A mechanic and race enthusiast, Shaddrick introduced Fletcher to local speedways and cars, creating a bond built on horsepower and adrenaline. Even after Shaddrick’s untimely passing due to heart issues and diabetes, Cox kept their shared passion alive.

In 2015, during the peak of his NFL career, Cox founded Cox Racing—a professional drag racing team. The centerpiece? A Golddust Mustang inherited from Shaddrick, which Cox personally modified into a competitive race car. For him, racing wasn’t just a hobby; it was a form of therapy and escape from the pressures of football. “Working on cars brings me peace,” Cox once shared.

Now, with his football days behind him, Cox is diving even deeper into the racing world. He’s frequently seen in the pits, not just watching but getting hands-on with the crew. Rumors have swirled on Reddit that he may have purchased the iconic Atco Dragway in New Jersey, though no official confirmation has been made. Still, the speculation aligns with Cox’s known dedication to the sport.

One memorable moment that illustrates just how tied Cox is to racing happened in 2016. While working on a car, he received the news of his six-year, $103 million contract extension with the Eagles. Even with one of the biggest deals in franchise history on the line, Cox was more focused on the engine he was fixing—a moment that perfectly captured his dual passions.

Today, Cox is not just building cars—he’s building legacy. He’s taken on a fatherly role for Shaddrick’s children and continues to honor his brother through every race. As fans cheer his football highlights, his heart is already at the track.

Football may be over, but Fletcher Cox’s next race is just beginning—and he’s not slowing down.