He might have hung up the boots (for now), but Joe Marler’s been far from quiet. Whether he’s smashing serves on the pro-am padel circuit or causing chaos on BBC’s Celebrity Traitors, the former Harlequins prop hasn’t exactly faded into the background.
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But beyond the TV cameras, Marler’s taken on a new gig that’s a little closer to home — stepping into a player welfare role with England Rugby.
The 34-year-old is helping oversee player welfare, workload management, and overall wellbeing for the current squad — something he’s perfectly placed to do after a career at the sharp end of Test rugby.
Speaking on the For The Love of Rugby podcast, Marler opened up about what the job actually involves — and the surprising challenges that come with swapping scrums for spreadsheets.
“It’s about making sure the lads are looked after so they can perform and have long careers,” Marler explained. “Who better to understand the toll it takes than the boys who’ve been through it?”
He also revealed that part of his role means tackling some serious conversations — often with people he’s previously clashed with on the pitch.
One standout moment? His first negotiation with none other than Saracens boss Mark McCall, discussing rest periods for Nick Isiekwe after the autumn Tests.
“It was hilarious,” Marler laughed. “Going from scrapping with the bloke to being on the phone going through rest terms in the PGP. I think he couldn’t quite believe he was talking to the same prat who’s been a clown for most of his career — now with the title of ‘performance director of England Rugby’.”
Marler’s return to the England setup might not involve lacing up his boots (yet), but it’s clear his influence off the field is already being felt — especially by the younger players who, as he puts it, “might be too scared to speak to the DoRs without being judged for being soft.”
One thing’s for sure — whether it’s tackling welfare issues or winding up opposition coaches, Joe Marler remains one of rugby’s great characters.
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