Playing in the NFL is much more dangerous then people realize IMO. Clearly more dangerous then basketball. We are just now learning how much brain damage is occurring from players running full speed like guided missiles into each other and clashing helmets/ heads. The broken bones, knee injuries, neck and spinal injuries, I could go on and on.
I also think much of the charity work by proffessional athletes gets overlooked, Many of the NFL's higher paid superstars along with their teamates give back to the communities in many ways. Visiting children in hospitals, coaching and working with kids in their spare time, inspiring kids to stay in school, get an education.
In many ways Pro athletes are of service to the community in my humble opinion.