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On the field, you know him as a cornerback for the Tennessee Titans.
But off the field, Sean Murphy-Bunting is helping young athletes achieve success not only in football, but in the game of life. Teaming up with his mother, Kim Murphy, the pair founded Successful Jocks, a nonprofit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of student-athletes. Together, the mother-son duo work to support and empower students by providing resources and inspiration through this remarkable program.
Road to Nashville: I was born and raised in Detroit, and my family moved to Macomb, Michigan, when I was in middle school. Football has played a significant role in my life, affording me the opportunity to live my dream. I played high school football at Chippewa Valley High School and college ball at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. I always dreamed about becoming a professional athlete, and in 2019, my dream became my reality when I was drafted as the 39th pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After a successful four-year rookie contract with the Buccaneers, I became a free agent and was blessed with the opportunity to continue my career in the NFL. After visiting the city of Nashville and meeting with the GM, coaches, staff, and players, I fell in love with the values, goals, and culture of the Titans organization.
Unbreakable Bond: My mom is my number one fan. She is the woman behind my success. My mom is my best friend, my rock, my daily inspiration. She’s known as my ‘mama-ger,’ making sure that my personal, professional, and business affairs are in order. Not only is she concerned with my wins on the field, but she also pushes me to be great off the field. I am so proud to work with her to uplift our community.
Making a Difference: A “jock” is an athlete. My mom and I wanted to share our playbook journey and be a blessing to others by providing resources as they travel along theirs. Successful Jocks’ mission is to inspire, motivate, and empower student-athletes, equipping them with the tools, resources, and support needed to become successful in the game of life. I serve as President of Successful Jocks, working alongside my mother, who is the Chief Executive Director. We started this foundation to be a resource and inspiration to others. Through our Game of Life Program and our So Many Blessings Program, Successful Jocks’ goal is to be visible in communities, spreading so many blessings to children and families, children living in foster or adoptive homes, and student- athletes. Our goal is to help children in a variety of ways through sports participation, providing necessities, mentoring, and lending moral support to their families. Some activities include scholarships, shopping sprees, Christmas parties, family fundays, field trips, sports camps, pre-game meals, and workshops.
Hands On: My mom and I recently visited FrankTown Open Hearts to hold a roundtable college recruitment workshop. This workshop meant a lot to me. I was once in their shoes. I love opportunities to mentor young athletes. It gave my mom and I a chance to share our story, provide resources, and motivate some student-athletes and their moms along in their journey.
Leading By Example: I am proud of the fact that I am a Successful Jock, and I serve as an ambassador and mentor. Over the past four years, we have positively impacted the lives of over 1,000 children and families. My hope is to continue to be a blessing to others in a greater capacity. Fans recognize SMB as an acronym for my name, but for me, it means so much more. I am blessed to be a blessing: so many blessings (SMB).