Last week in the NFL there were 6 hits that were considered Helmet to Helmet hits. Most of these led to a concussion for the player that was hit. The most severe of these was the Eagles Desean Jackson. Desean was hit so hard in the head by another player that not only did he have a concussion following the hit but he also had memory loss from the hit. The helmet to helmet hits have gotten more attention as the effects of concussions are more widely researched. Typically now players are forced to sit out the next game after their concussion and sometimes two games. With the seriousness of Desean Jackson's injury the NFL is no longer taking helmet to helmet hits so lightly as talk has turned to suspending players for such dirty hits. NFL players are resisting this because they claim most helmet to helmet hits are accidental as a persons natural reaction is to bring their head down to their chest when hit which actually causes the helmet to helmet contact. Suspension seems like the best option as many former players have stated that the only way to effectively get the message across that hits of that nature are not allowed is to suspend the offending player. Concussions are becoming a more and more serious issue for the NFL as some high profile former players have died due to complications caused by brain injuries. The NFL does not want to kill off its work force so they have begun taking a more serious stance. As more and more research is coming out regarding the seriousness of concussions and the prolonged effects they can have on players it will be interesting to see what sort of rule changes and policy changes develop.
The NFL is not the only sport that has had serious issues with concussions as it is a large problem in the NHL as well. Eric Lindros is a prime example of this, suffering 8 concussions while playing for the Flyers, being forced to end his career prematurely for fear that were he to suffer any more he would end up brain dead. Sports are started to be more and more cautious because not properly protecting their players puts them at liability for lawsuit as well as preventing future players from joining for fear of the violent nature of the games.
Its refreshing to see both the NFL and NHL taking concussions so seriously given the violent nature of both sports. I'm sure players and fans alike are relieved as no one wants to see one of their favorite players severely injured. I know im pleased that something so obviously detrimental to people is finally a concern.
No comments:
Post a Comment