On Christmas of 2015 the blockbuster film ¨Concussion¨ was released in theatres, a controversial film that shined light on the severity of head injuries and specifically head injuries in football. The long-term issues that come along with numerous blows to the head are primarily sustained if these blows go undiagnosed.

In the NFL before the new concussion protocol was implemented players would sustain concussions in games, and continue playing as if nothing was wrong. The cycle would go on and on, and players would attain numerous concussions, and never be treated for them. This style of play is why we now see so many players coming out with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE, which is the primary diagnosis for retired football players with brain issues. With these serious conditions now coming to light as a product of playing football the question is raised, is playing the game really worth it?

Absolutely, football is America’s game and the highlight of our Sunday´s. The knowledge that is now being gained over the risks of football is actually good for the game; the NFL is able to start working on preventing these injuries from happening. There are now more rules and regulations in football to protect players and ensure their safety which is a beautiful thing to see.

The rule targeting has been implemented in football, to prevent unnecessary head injuries. This rule states No player shall target and initiate contact against an opponent with the crown (top) of his helmet. When in question, it is a foul. Along with that, a brand new concussion protocol has been implemented, meaning that if even the slightest symptom of concussion has been detected, players are removed from the game and put through numerous tests to assure that they are not concussed. If a concussion has been detected, players are removed from all football activity and remain out until they can perfectly pass the concussion testing.

The news brought to our attention about head injuries in football through the movie “Concussion” and retired players who are now publically suffering from CTE is intimidating, but we should not allow it to ruin our beloved game. Instead, use this knowledge to find ways to increase player safety and prevent these severe head injuries from occurring.