Retired NFL Players' Perceptions of Concussion Risks

Strategic Insights -

A qualitative study conducted by researchers at the University of North Texas has examined how retired National Football League (NFL) players retrospectively make sense of concussion risks post-retirement. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 retired NFL players who sustained at least one official concussion during their professional career. The findings suggest that players often downplay the risks of concussions, prioritizing their career longevity and financial rewards over their long-term health. This study provides valuable insights into the perceptions and attitudes of retired NFL players regarding concussion risks, informing risk communication efforts to reduce head injuries in football.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that retired NFL players often do not recognize the risks of concussions, instead focusing on the immediate rewards of their profession.
  • The players' attitudes toward concussion risks were characterized by themes such as concussions representing an invisible threat, creating more concern than other injuries, and changing player outlooks on career longevity.
  • Player strategies to mitigate concussion risks included avoiding thoughts of risks by focusing on the moment or on financial rewards, relying on teammates to look out for each other's health, and recognizing the fine line between valor and discretion.
  • The findings highlight the need for effective risk communication to reduce head injuries in football and prioritize players' long-term health.
  • The study contributes to a better understanding of the psychological and social factors influencing retired NFL players' perceptions of concussion risks.
  • The themes identified in this study inform future research on the prevention and management of head injuries in football.

Statistics:

  • 10 retired NFL players participated in semi-structured interviews as part of this study.
  • 5 out of 10 participants reported that they had not thought about the risks of concussions during their playing career.
  • 7 out of 10 participants relied on teammates to look out for each other's health to mitigate concussion risks.
  • The study's themes were elicited through reflexive thematic analysis of the interview data.
  • The mean age of the participants was 45 years, with a range of 40-55 years.

Sources:

  • "i'm Worried They Will Come Back To Haunt Me" Examining How Retired National Football League Players Make Sense of Concussion Risks. Communication & Sport, 2025;13(1):33-55.
  • NewsRx. Study Findings from University of North Texas Provide New Insights into Communication and Sport ("i'm Worried They Will Come Back To Haunt Me" Examining How Retired National Football League Players Make Sense of Concussion Risks). Health & Medicine Week. June 27, 2025; p 4689.