Atiim Kiambu “Tiki” Barber, born April 7, 1975, in Roanoke, Virginia, is a name synonymous with both athletic excellence and post-career entrepreneurship. Known for his sharp intellect and relentless drive on and off the field, Barber has transitioned from one of the NFL’s most dynamic running backs into a thoughtful business leader and cannabis industry advocate—proving his evolution from gridiron star to social-impact entrepreneur.
NFL Career and Legacy
Barber’s football story began at the University of Virginia, where he became one of the program’s standout players, earning ACC Player of the Year honors in 1996. His success propelled him into the NFL, where the New York Giants selected him in the second round of the 1997 Draft. Over ten impressive seasons (1997–2006), Barber became the Giants’ all-time leading rusher, amassing 10,449 rushing yards, 5,183 receiving yards, and 67 total touchdowns. His rare ability to dominate both the ground and air game made him one of the most versatile offensive weapons of his era.
Barber earned three Pro Bowl selections (2004–2006) and one First-Team All-Pro nod (2005), cementing his place among the league’s elite. His meticulous work ethic was evident not only in his play but also in how he addressed early career struggles with fumbles—adjusting his running style to carry the ball vertically, a change that drastically improved his ball security. His combination of intelligence, leadership, and adaptability made him one of the NFL’s most respected veterans by the time of his retirement after the 2006 season.
Following retirement, Barber transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a correspondent for NBC’s Today and a contributor to Football Night in America. Later, he co-hosted shows on CBS Sports Radio and WFAN, continuing his connection to the game through media. His post-NFL career also included entrepreneurship, authorship, and public speaking, showing that Barber’s competitive spirit extended far beyond the field.
A New Chapter: Cannabis Entrepreneurship
Among his ventures, Barber’s most notable recent chapter is his entrance into the cannabis industry. He co-founded Grove Group Management, an investment and management firm focused on the emerging cannabis market. The company helps cannabis startups—particularly minority-owned and social-equity-focused enterprises—navigate the complex regulatory and operational landscape of the industry.
Barber’s involvement is not just about profit—it’s about purpose. In multiple interviews with outlets like Cheddar and Forbes, he’s described cannabis as a “transformational industry” that offers opportunities to correct past social injustices related to marijuana prohibition. He’s expressed a commitment to ensuring individuals with prior cannabis-related convictions are not excluded from the legal market, advocating for inclusion and fairness as legalization expands across the country.
His partnership with Grove Group Management positions him among a growing number of former athletes—like Ricky Williams and Calvin Johnson—who are using their platforms to shift perceptions of cannabis from taboo to legitimate business and wellness frontier. Barber refers to himself as a “cannabis opportunist,” someone who recognizes both the industry’s economic potential and its role in rewriting the narrative surrounding marijuana use and enforcement.
Views on Cannabis and the NFL
Barber has also been outspoken about the NFL’s historical approach to cannabis. He’s noted that during his playing days, marijuana use among athletes was common but heavily penalized. In a Fox Business interview, he stated that the league’s testing protocols were “easy to beat,” suggesting players often found ways to avoid detection. His remarks echo a broader conversation among former players who believe cannabis can serve as a safer alternative to opioids for pain management and recovery.
Legacy Beyond the Game
From breaking tackles to breaking stigmas, Tiki Barber’s journey reflects a rare blend of athletic excellence, business acumen, and social consciousness. His evolution from Giants legend to cannabis entrepreneur underscores a powerful truth: even after the final whistle, leaders like Barber continue to redefine what it means to win—on the field, in business, and in shaping the future of responsible cannabis reform.