Time for Culture: Colts safety discusses how, in the current game, family and health come first

admin | December 10, 2023 | Other Clubs | No Comments

Investigating the NFL’s developing approach to player health and safety, as veteran Colts center Ryan Kelly emphasizes the value of life outside of football.

It’s no secret that the NFL is undergoing a major cultural transformation. Toughness and playing despite injuries are no longer regarded as badges of honor. Today, the emphasis is on player safety and health, as evidenced by the experiences of veterans such as Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly. Kelly stated his thoughts:

It’s a violent game. Guys should make as much money as they can in this league. Everybody has a 100% injury rate. Everybody’s going to get injured.

Ryan Kelly’s NFL career and struggles with head injuries are the focus of Mike Chappell’s article on Fox59. Kelly has been injured and concussed multiple times and has taken the time to offer his experiences and viewpoint on the realities that NFL players confront.

If it’s between playing football and when I’m 60 having dementia and all these things you see that can come from playing football, of course I’m going to look after myself and my family.

Unsurprisingly, his family-planning experience weighs heavily on his thoughts as he examines his NFL future and when it will be time to retire.

Once you become a father, you’re like, ‘I’ve got people I’ve got to look after.’ I’ve done really well in this league. I’ve made more money than I could have ever imagined.

Initiatives aimed at decreasing head injuries, such as the concussion protocol and penalties for helmet-to-helmet hits, are critical steps toward protecting players. Kelly’s comments on the consequences of concussions, as well as his preference for family and health over the game, demonstrate a shift in player thinking.

This transition is critical not only for their well-being, but also for the sport’s future. However, as a result of this trend, careers are likely to be shorter than in the past, and Colts fans have already felt the consequences of this with Andrew Luck’s early retirement.

While Kelly’s words do not indicate that he is actively pondering whether or not he still wants to play the game, it is evident that when that time comes, he will be honest with himself.

I’ll try to play the game as long as I can. I’ll go out there and give everything I’ve got. If ultimately I have more concussions, I’ll make a decision then, whatever that is.

This transition, however, has not been without controversy. Some fans and players are concerned that certain rule modifications may change the core nature of the game. While these concerns are fair, and the changes should be made with caution so as not to alter the nature of the game, it is also true that football is much more than massive hits.

As we continue to watch this societal shift, it is critical to strike a balance between the game’s integrity and the undeniable need to protect people who play it. Colts fans will have to hope that the NFL and the players union can find solutions soon, because keeping Ryan Kelly around for a long and healthy career is in everyone’s best interests.