Former New York Giants fullback CHARLES WAY, who spent the past 14 years as the team’s director of player programs, has been named head of the NFL’s Player Engagement department, the National Football League announced today.
Way will replace Troy Vincent, who was promoted earlier this year to NFL executive vice president of football operations. Way played for the Giants from 1995 to 1999, also serving as the team’s player representative to the NFL Players Association. The following year he began his career in player support services.
In his new role, Way will oversee the continued evolution and implementation of a broad array of support programs and services for players and their families across the Prep, Life and Next platforms, including the Rookie Symposium, NFL Total Wellness, and career development programs. Way will work closely with NFL clubs, coaches and players to ensure that these league programs are both effective and fully utilized.
“Charles’ passion, knowledge and experience, both on and off the field, serve as a strategic addition to the NFL as we evolve our programs and services for players and their families at all levels of the game,” says ROBERT GULLIVER, NFL chief human resources officer. “By joining the league office, Charles will expand his impact by overseeing the programs and services that are provided to all NFL teams and players.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity to continue to advance the initiatives of the Player Engagement department,” says Way. “I am thankful to Ernie Accorsi for envisioning the importance and significance of the role I have had with the Giants and grateful for the support of John Mara, Steve Tisch, Jerry Reese and Tom Coughlin in implementing and developing the programs we have instituted. We will continue to build on the foundation of NFL Player Engagement that has been established over the past 25 years.”
During his tenure leading player services with the Giants, Way was instrumental in developing new programs, including leadership training, professional development and team building. Most recently, he participated in the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace at the United Nations to discuss the NFL’s impact on local communities.
Way resides in New Jersey with his wife Tahesha, an administrative law judge for the state of New Jersey, and four children. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Virginia and an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Centenary College.
