NFL Player Justin Hardee visits Waveland Elementary School

Justin Hardee, a former player for the New Orleans Saints and current player for the New York Jets, stopped by Waveland Elementary School to visit students.

Hardee talked about the importance of education, following your dreams, and being a great leader. Hardee played for the Saints from 2017 to 2020. In March of 2021, he signed a contact with the New York Jets.

Along with his stellar football career, Hardee obtained three degrees and owns two Papa John’s pizzerias, including one in Waveland.

To make sure students continue to work hard in the classroom, he has included an incentive program through his Papa John’s franchise.

When students fill their pizza pie chart, they get free pizza. Hardee said, “It’s good to let them know early how important that they are personally. How we care about them, that we love them, and that all you have to do is listen. You listen and you work hard and watch some things happen for you.”

Hardee also owns a Papa John’s in New Orleans. He says his goal is to create generational wealth past football.