In the world of sports, where athletes push their physical limits, the recent revelation of former NFL running back Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis has sparked an important conversation. While Johnson chose not to emphasize the link between his condition and football, it is a connection that cannot be overlooked or downplayed. The fact that ALS is one of the specific conditions that automatically qualify retired players for compensation from the NFL's concussion settlement fund highlights the need for awareness. The study that found a nearly fourfold increase in ALS risk among NFL athletes further underscores the significance of this issue. The media's reluctance to mention the ties between ALS and football is concerning, as it may lead to a lack of understanding and awareness among players and the public. The segment on Good Morning America, for instance, could have delved deeper into the connection, especially considering Johnson's wife's belief that his symptoms may be linked to a pinched nerve from playing football. This raises a deeper question: why is the link between ALS and football often overlooked or downplayed? In my opinion, it is because the conversation around head injuries in sports is complex and sensitive. Athletes, like Tom Brady, may be willing to take more risks as part of their athletic pursuits, but the full range of these risks should be known by everyone who signs up to play. Football, like other sports, carries a risk of concussions and subconcussive blows to the head, which could lead to long-term health issues such as ALS, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. The existential threat to the game arising from the possible restriction of the flow of young players who, over time, will hone the best of the best into NFL-caliber athletes is real, but largely unspoken. While enough young men will continue to choose to play football, the quality of the athletes who make it to the highest level of the sport could diminish if the broader pool of players shrinks. The media's role in bringing attention to these risks is crucial, but it is also important for athletes and the public to be aware of the potential consequences of head injuries in sports. In conclusion, the link between ALS and football is a critical issue that requires further discussion and awareness. It is a reminder that athletes, like Chris Johnson, are not immune to the potential long-term health consequences of head injuries in sports. As we continue to push the boundaries of athletic performance, it is essential to acknowledge and address the risks associated with head injuries, not only for the well-being of athletes but also for the future of sports itself.
