Brian Dawkins Weighs in on Concussions and the CBA
One of the myriad topics being talked about in forming the new CBA is the support players are given for their long-term health.
It's no secret that concussions are a serious problem in the NFL, but it seems every new story that comes out sheds more light onto the growing problem. Tim McManus spoke to Brian Dawkins, who estimates he's had four serious concussions, and others about the reality of the issue and the need to address it in the new CBA: [PSD]
“My own union doesn’t represent me,” said Jim Brown, considered by many to be the greatest running back of all time and an activist on many fronts. “The NFL doesn’t represent me. Who am I as far as the NFL is concerned? My image is being used, but am I part of the NFL fraternity?”
There is a widespread sense of alienation between many of the veterans and the game they helped popularize, much of it stemming from the lack of care once they step off the field. As flimsy as the current benefits may seem they are significantly better than what former generations received. Those who took an early pension make as little as $100 per month, and are on their own to deal with the physical problems resulting from their playing days.
“We paid a tremendous price with our bodies for a game we loved,” said Brown. “You look out for the wounded, for the old soldiers, for the injured.” Adding, “Every modern player is going to be a veteran sometime.”
“We have to make sure that the men who play the game are protected for long after they are done,” said Dawkins, “so that our legends can be living legends.”
Great read from T-Mac here and great perspective on the issue from John Miller here.
Of course, Dawkins handed out a few concussions, too, sooo…