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High-profile performance is nothing new for Ben Utecht. As a five-season NFL veteran and Cincinnati Bengals starting tight end, Utecht entertains hundreds of thousands of fans each fall with his skillful offensive field techniques. But the 28-year-old—who won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts—has more than pigskin on the brain. He's also a gifted singer/songwriter—his debut album earned four stars from us—who's proving his off-season aptitude to the masses. Utecht spoke with us about his music, the relationships that brought him from the gridiron to the stage, and why, for now, football comes first.

Ben Utecht

Will there be a place for music during the fall NFL schedule?

Ben Utecht: Once the season starts it's pretty much just football and ministering through football. I really feel like God wants to keep music for the off-season. He's blessed me with the opportunity to play in the NFL, and that has to be my primary focus. But you can count on me getting into music once the season is done.

So would you define yourself as a football player first, then as a musician?

Utecht: They are both part of my identity. But being a football player would probably come before being a musician right now.

Most people spend a lifetime of resources investing in a single career. Is it overkill to divide your energy between two demanding professions?

Utecht: I don't think so. Music has always been a relief for me, an opportunity to get away from stresses and anxieties that come along with [football]. It gives me an avenue to create and express myself. I think that has improved my capabilities as an athlete.

So it's therapeutic.

Utecht: Yeah. When you get into the football season it's seven days a week. It's very time-consuming. Music allows me a refreshing opportunity to experience Christ in a new way and rejuvenate my faith.

What unique opportunities does athletic celebrity afford your music career?

Utecht: I've been able to take my faith-based music into schools and talk about issues of character. I'm able to talk about issues that include the fruits of the Spirit without necessarily pushing Jesus on anybody. Music has given me a unique avenue to bridge some of the barriers that we face with separation of church and state, and doors will open for me that might not for other Christian artists because of the NFL.

Have you received any opposition from students or administrators?

Utecht: No. That's the crazy thing. I always do a little quirky thing about having this secret dream to try out for American Idol. Everyone starts laughing and usually someone says, "Prove it!"  I say, "OK.  I want y'all to be my judges." I say, "I grew up singing in the church, so my audition is always 'Amazing Grace'." People don't expect a football player to sing. The kids and teachers love it.

Ben as a Bengal

Students can be tough, but the locker room must be even tougher. Do you get a lot of grief from players for your musical aspirations?

Utecht: The cool thing is the guys understand my heart and realize this isn't just a gimmick. I get respect. It's been exciting to see how my teammates have jumped on board. I've got guys going on iTunes and checking out my website. It's a unique way for me to witness to these guys; I've been thrilled about that.

Any closet musicians on the team trying to audition for a spot on the road?

Utecht: [Laughs] You'd be surprised at how many hidden talents are on each team. One of my teammates, Rico Murray, plays drums, bass and lead guitar. He grew up playing in his dad's worship band. These kinds of guys are on every team.

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