The Hidden Dangers of the NFL: A High-Risk Workplace

Strategic Insights -

The Green Bay Packers, despite losing 16 players to season-ending injuries, have managed to make a remarkable run in the playoffs. Their opponent, the Pittsburgh Steelers, are also dealing with injuries, including four of their starting offensive linemen. This level of attrition is staggering, with the Packers suffering a 30% attrition rate this season. The NFL's playing fields are the most dangerous workplace in America, with 352 players placed on season-ending injured reserve and hundreds more suffering lesser injuries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NFL's 30% attrition rate is the highest in any professional sport, with 352 players placed on season-ending injured reserve this year.
  • The typical starting player is on the field for only about eight hours a year during the regular season, yet still suffers from frequent injuries.
  • The majority of injuries in the NFL are due to the physical nature of the sport, rather than the length of games, stoppages, or fan rowdiness.
  • The league has instituted new penalties for certain hits and rules requiring more convalescing for concussed players, but more needs to be done to address the issue of injuries.
  • The Players Association has recently taken a more pronounced stance on the issue of injuries, but its interest may be seen as a bargaining chip in collective bargaining negotiations.
  • The NFL's push to add two more games to the regular season may exacerbate the injury problem.
  • There are many examples of ex-players who have suffered lifelong impairment due to injuries sustained during their playing careers.

Statistics:

  • 352 players were placed on season-ending injured reserve this year (21% of the total player population).
  • The average team sustains 3.7 injuries to their 53-man active roster each week.
  • About 1.4 of these injuries require a player to miss at least one game.

Sources:

  • NFL Players Association
  • ESPN sports network broadcasts
  • The 2007 death of Darryl Stingley due to a collision in 1978