Updated: January 24, 2026
If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the glamorous facade of being an NFL wife, Jasmatia Schaefering’s story offers a raw, eye-opening look. As the former spouse of NFL defensive end Brian Schaefering, she lived the high-profile “WAG” lifestyle for years—think luxury perks, team events, and a sense of belonging on the sidelines. But when retirement hit, everything changed. In this post, we dive into who Brian Schaefering is, their marriage journey, the challenges after football, and the recent divorce that has sparked conversations about identity and post-NFL life.
Table of Contents
Who Is Brian Schaefering? A Quick Profile
Brian Schaefering had a solid, if not superstar, career in the NFL as a defensive end. Born on August 20, 1983, he played college football at Lindenwood University before entering the pros.
Here are some key highlights from his career:
- Drafted by the New York Jets in the 2009 NFL Draft (7th round, pick 212)
- Played for the Jets (2009–2010), Dallas Cowboys (2011), and had stints back with the Jets
- Known for his size and strength: 6’4″ (1.93 m) tall and around 295 lbs (134 kg) during his playing days
- Retired after the 2013 season, wrapping up about five years in the league
To give you a clearer snapshot, here’s a simple table with essential info:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brian Schaefering |
| Birth Date | August 20, 1983 |
| Position | Defensive End |
| Height / Weight | 6’4″ (193 cm) / 295 lbs (134 kg) |
| NFL Teams | New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys |
| College | Lindenwood University |
| Years Active in NFL | 2009–2013 |
| Notable Appearances | Featured in “Weediquette” (2016) episode with Jasmatia |
Brian’s journey from college standout to NFL pro was impressive, but like many players, the transition out of football brought unexpected hurdles.
The Marriage: Life as an NFL Wife
Jasmatia Schaefering (sometimes credited as Jas Schaefering) married Brian during his playing years. She embraced the role fully—attending games, connecting with other wives, and enjoying the excitement that comes with professional sports.
- Shared the spotlight in media appearances, including a 2016 episode of the Viceland series Weediquette titled “Gridiron Ganja,” where they discussed life, cannabis, and football culture.
- Experienced the perks: travel, events, community among WAGs (wives and girlfriends of athletes).
- Faced unique pressures, like the infamous NFL drug test on their wedding day (a story she later shared publicly).
For years, the marriage seemed stable amid the highs and lows of NFL life. Jasmatia built much of her identity around being “Brian’s wife” and supporting his career.
Post-Retirement Challenges and Identity Crisis
Retirement in 2013 marked the beginning of major shifts. Without the structure of football, many former players—and their partners—struggle with purpose, finances, and health.
Jasmatia has spoken candidly about an “identity crisis” after Brian left the league. Key points she highlighted in recent interviews include:
- The sudden loss of routine and community that came with game days and team events.
- Adjusting to a “normal” life after years in the spotlight.
- Dealing with the long-term effects of football on players, including potential health issues (though specific details about Brian remain private).
- Realizing how much of her own sense of self was tied to the NFL world.
She described the experience as eye-opening: the glamour faded, revealing instability many WAGs face when the career ends. This period tested their relationship in ways neither expected.
The Divorce Filing and What It Means
In June 2024, Jasmatia filed for divorce from Brian Schaefering—over a decade after his retirement. The news made headlines because it highlighted the often-unspoken realities of post-NFL marriages.
- The split came amid her public reflections on the WAG lifestyle’s downsides.
- She emphasized themes like cliquey sidelines, mental health strains, and rebuilding after the game.
- While personal details remain limited, her story resonates with others who’ve gone through similar transitions.
It’s a reminder that even strong partnerships can face tough reckonings when the external structure disappears.
Conclusion: Lessons from the Sidelines
Jasmatia Schaefering’s journey with husband Brian Schaefering shows both the thrill and fragility of life tied to professional sports. From draft day excitement to retirement realities and eventual divorce, their story captures what many NFL families quietly navigate.
If you’re curious about the real side of being an NFL wife, her experiences offer valuable insight: identity shouldn’t depend solely on a partner’s career, and change—whether retirement or separation—can lead to growth. As of 2026, Jasmatia continues sharing her perspective, reminding us that behind every highlight reel is a human story.
What do you think about the challenges former NFL couples face? Share in the comments!