Football Players Safety Essay

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In the 2002 a doctor by the name of Bennet Omalu was able to prove that repeated impacts to football players cause permenant brain damage known as CTE. Prior to this, there was speculation by several doctors that the long term effects of repeated mild concussions cause by the game was unknown. The National Football League took a long time to begin taking serious action for player safety. Compared the football played decades ago, players are much safer now. Still though the National Football League is not doing enough to ensure the safety of it’s players.
One area in whcih the NFL is working to protect its players is safety equipment. In the 1800’s football players wore a wool stocking cap for a helmet. Their teams were indicated by a colored handkerchief. By the 1920’s football began to experience major changes. Helmets at this time were made of a leather shell. A fiber shell was added in 1934 to begin providing some protection for head impacts. Hard plastic helmets
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This would be the most difficult safety measure to impose because very few players would want to be forced into retirement, especially if they are in the peak or their career, earning a seven figure income, or chasing a coveted title. Regardless research into concussions and education for players may be enough to to reduce the number and frequency of hean injuries.
It may seems as though the National Football League is doing a lot to help its players and reduce injuries. Most of the changes made by the National Football League have only happened after repeated outcry by players, officials, and others who have an interest in the sport. If this was not the case the National Football League would be more willing to make the changes listed above such as more funding for research and educaiton for players. until this happens it is clear the National Football League is not doing enough to help it’s players prevent brain

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