Would You Play Football If Chances Of A Severe Head Injury Were High?
I was recently asked a fascinating question about whether or not Id play football if chances of a he..
I was recently asked a fascinating question about whether or not Id play football if chances of a head injury were high.
We all know about CTE and the ramifications of brutal head injuries. We know more now than we ever have. Thats why I was so fascinated by the question. Essentially, knowing what I know know, would I play college football if I suffered concussions as a younger man?
I have been hospitalized for four terrible head injuries in the past 15 years. I got two from hockey, one from playing with some friends in middle school and I was hospitalized once in college. So, by the age of 18, I had already taken three trips to the hospital for head trauma related issues. Its a scary situation. Getting lit up is a terrible thing to happen to your head.
Yet, I was hesitant to say know when asked if Id stay play college football as a superstar quarterback with at least three severe concussions already under my belt. If you asked me at the age of 15, I would have said yes in a heartbeat. However, times have changed, and everybody is more hesitant.
I thought long and hard about the question in front of me. Eventually, I decided I would still give it a shot, but would quit immediately if I got another head injury. It just goes to show how seriously people take football in this country. I know the consequences of head injuries better than pretty much anybody else out there. Despite taking plenty of trips to the hospital, it still wouldnt stop me from playing. Now, imagine how NFL players feel. Theyre not quick to go anywhere.
Its just wild to think that even with all we know about head injuries that there is next to no hesitation to play or watch football. Truly, its a sport that people in this country will never give up. Weve got to make it safer, but lets all just admit that we all love football no matter what.
