It’s not a stunt; four NFL Pro Bowlers are taking what they've learned on the gridiron to the ice-covered lanes of curling. Former Minnesota Viking defensive-end Jared Allen is leading the team and said it all started with a bet.
“I made a bet with a buddy of mine years ago, that after I retired I’d try to make a PGA tour event,” said Allen.
Allen said years later, that friend gave him a hard time over the PGA bet that he hadn’t fulfilled, the bet then transformed into becoming an Olympian.
“I think we were watching Eddie the Eagle or something… I could totally become an Olympian somehow. I’m athletic enough to figure this out,” said Allen quietly among other athletes.
At first, Allen chose badminton as his sport and recruited former Rams quarterback Marc Bulger. However, after watching the intense competition and seeing athletes run around chasing a shuttlecock they decided curling would be their sport.
“I always watched curling during the Olympics,” said Allen. “I started reading the rules and the comradery and ethics. It was like ‘come have a beer after you play your matches!’Ah, this is super chill!”
Allen said so far the curling community has been welcoming. “There’s no trash talking, there’s not a threat of getting hit,” laughed Allen.
Allen and Roos said playing in the NFL has helped their curling game.
“There’s definitely all the team aspects of playing as a team, but you still got to do your job,” said Roos. “I think just being athletic helps.”
Allen said learning the game is similar to football where you “admire the skillset” and try to “emulate” what you can.
“We’re putting the work in and we’re trying to get better. You know, we’re not afraid to take our lumps,” said Allen.
Round one began Thursday night and continues through Sunday.