Grit & Greatness: An NFL Player’s Journey into Art and Teaching

In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Lindsey Lundeen Crosland and Jared Taylor talk with Jose Portilla—former NFL player turned artist and educator—about the surprising parallels between football and art. Born in Mexico and raised in Texas, Jose overcame early doubts to become the first Mexican-born player to appear in a Super Bowl with the Atlanta Falcons. After football, he earned a degree in visual communications and built a second career as a professional artist and high school art teacher at Heritage Academy in Mesa, Arizona.

Jose explains how discipline and creativity fuel one another, helping students build confidence, resilience, and balance. He shares why a strong foundation in drawing matters, how art prepares young people for future careers, and how creative expression allows them to process emotions. From state championships as a coach to award-winning gallery work, Jose’s story shows how grit, passion, and imagination can inspire both on the field and in the classroom.

Show Notes:

1. If you want to learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visitAmericanClassroom.Show https://americanclassroom.show/
2. To learn more about or take a tour of the great schools mentioned in this episode, visit Heritage Academy https://heritageacademyaz.com/ or Paul Revere Academy https://paulrevere.tech/
3. https://hamesa.com/portilla-news/
4. Sponsored by: Heritage Academy, downtown Mesa campus- www.hamesa.com