It was bound to be a subject that was going to get brought up sooner or later. Nothing has commanded attention towards the NFL more these days than concussions and the impact they could have on the long-term health of players. That’s why it must’ve sounded rather unnerving when the Bears rookie Leonard Floyd concussion issue needed two months of recovery time after the second of two he suffered in 2016.
It inevitably led to discussions about the status of his young career. Is it wise for him to continue? Can he really adjust his playing style to help limit the risks of suffering such injuries again? Two former NFL players in Ross Tucker and Booger McFarland took to Sirius NFL radio to discuss that very subject.
Leonard Floyd concussion issue has no definitive right answers
“He’s 24 years old and I guess he’s talking to doctors and all, I guess here’s what would be my point, if I had anything going on where my brain wasn’t working right for two months, good bye, see ya later,” said Tucker. “I almost wouldn’t care what the doctors would say. Two months? Two months?”
McFarland wasn’t quite as definitive, understanding the situation Floyd is in. The young man is just starting his NFL career. He had six sacks in a five-game span at one point last year. It’s obvious he has the chance to become a star in the league, which can mean huge money for him and his family. Even at the risk of his long-term health.
“It’s a tough situation because he’s just getting started in this league,” McFarland said. “He’s just getting started making what, I think he’s assuming, is a lot more money than what he just signed for. I know retirement isn’t close to anything he’s thinking about.”
“It’s going to affect you for the rest of your life. If I were around him or if the people around him (are) listening, make sure he gets an opportunity to get his brain checked out.”
Floyd has been working diligently with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio this offseason. His goal is to hone his fundamentals. Chief among them? No longer leading with his head when trying to make tackles. That was the primary reason for both head injuries he suffered last year. Truth be told though there’s no telling how his perspective might change if he gets hit with another this year.
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