In a time in which some young NFL players are choosing to retire early in light of recent breakthroughs in concussion studies, Richard Sherman’s view on the sport of football hasn’t changed.
In an interview with GQ, Sherman said he hasn’t changed his approach when playing the game.
“It doesn’t change the way I play,” Sherman said. “I’ve always tried to tackle with the best form, and not try to always get people down on the ground without using my head.”
Sherman also revealed that he’d be comfortable with his son playing in the NFL, if that’s what he decided to do with his life.
“But it doesn’t change the way I think about the game or how I feel about my kids playing the game. I feel like this game has given me a lot more than its taken. It obviously takes a toll on your body and you understand the risks going into it, but you also have to understand that it’s taught me discipline, hard work, teamwork, being dependable, being available, how to be a leader, how to work past adversity. Just so many things that you use in your everyday life. And you can’t take that for granted. So maybe my son doesn’t end up being a professional athlete, maybe he never even plays a sport, but I wouldn’t hold him back from something that’s been so great to me.”
These comments sound similar to ones uttered by J.J. Watt recently when he said he would quit the game when he’s no longer one of the best players and said he understands the risk of concussions but isn’t one of those “guys who’s out here, mad at the world because I am getting my head hit,” in an interview with Peter King of MMQB.
Clearly, there are guys with strong opinions on both side of this issue.
One wonders if Sherman and Watt have their strong views in part because of the incredible amount of compensation they’re currently receiving for their play. Perhaps if they weren’t among the top-paid players at their position their opinions might be different.
And perhaps, as more information continues to come out about the dangers of head trauma associated with football, more players will view the game as one they, and their kids, won’t be playing.