Posted on April 14, 2010 · Posted in Brain Injury

Another pro athlete has gotten the message about brain injury.

Detroit Lions tight end Casey FitzSimmons, who has sustained several concussions, Wednesday announced that he is retiring from the National Football League.  http://www.detnews.com/article/20100414/SPORTS0101/4140414/1361/Concussions-force-Lions-TE-FitzSimmons-to-retire

FitzSimmons, who has been playing in the NFL for seven years, cited his concerns about his “several documented concussions,” which included one he suffered in a Dec. 6 game against Cincinnati.

“This has been a very difficult decision,” FitzSimmons said in a statement. “I feel like 2009 was one of the best seasons of my career, because I was so consistent, and was able to contribute in a variety of ways.”

But FitzSimmons is concerned about his health.

“If it wasn’t for the concussions, I would not be retiring,” he said. “It’s frustrating because the rest of my body is still capable of playing at a high level in the NFL. However, given the seriousness of the risk associated with continuing to play, I have to listen to the advice the team has given me.”

About the Author

Attorney Gordon S. Johnson, Jr.
Past Chair Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group, American Association of Justice
g@gordonjohnson.com :: 800-992-9447