The former Rams, Chiefs and Dolphins quarterback, released by Miami after repeated concussion problems, now says he has been cleared to play in 2008. Green told Jay Glazer of FoxSports that he hopes to hook on with a team in time for next season.
The big question: Will someone take a chance on him?
Answer: I certainly hope not.
Green sounds very much like an aging player who doesn't know when it is time to say goodbye. He turns 38 in July, and has had a serious concussion in each of the last two seasons.
His competitiveness and will to keep playing is understandable. But let's face it. What is he going to prove by continuing to play and risk his long-term health, even if he has received medical clearance to return? And what team in its right mind would put the ball in his hands knowing his next play could be his last?
It reminds me somewhat of Steve Young's predicament near the end of his career. He'd suffered a concussion that knocked him unconscious (I'll never forget that scene of him lying in the fetal position after getting hit). Young desperately wanted to continue playing, but the combination of common sense and the unwillingness of the 49ers to let him back on the field ultimately prevailed.
Maybe it's time Green gave Young a call.
Comments (2)
Go ahead and give him Al Toon's, Wayne Chrebet's, and Merril Hoge's numbers while you're at it, Bob.
Hope we don't see Coles' name added to this list.
Green needs to see the doctor who helps protect the Patriots from concussion. An ESPN story about his patented procedure explains the politics behind NFL concussion research. The Patriots had one concussion last year, the Colts twelve. If the league was serious about concussion, you would think they would inform players like Green about this option. Anything at all costs for the health of the players, that's what I say.