“Prepping for a Marathon Is Way Harder Than Prepping for an NFL Game”: Retired DE Isaac Rochell Gets Honest Before Running the Chicago Marathon

Retired NFL Player Isaac Rochell Takes on Marathon Challenge

Isaac Rochell, a retired NFL defensive end, has admitted that training for a marathon is "way harder than football" as he prepares to run the Chicago Marathon.

Rochell, 29, spent seven years playing in the NFL for teams like the Chargers, Colts, Browns, and Raiders. After announcing his retirement on his wife's podcast, he has taken on a new challenge: marathon running.

"I went from wearing this jersey [NFL shirt] to this jersey [marathon bib]."

Rochell aims to finish the Chicago Marathon in 3:15. He has found that marathon training is a significant departure from his football days, requiring a different kind of discipline and preparation.

Author's summary: Retired NFL player takes on marathon challenge.

more

The SportsRush The SportsRush — 2025-10-12