Vincent Frank
Pittsburgh Steelers star edge rusher T.J. Watt entered Thursday’s game against the New England Patriots somewhat banged up.
It didn’t take Watt long to feel the wrath of this violent sport. In the first play from scrimmage, the NFL Defensive Player of the Year favorite took a knee to the helmet from Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott. It tid not look good.
Watt was down on the field for a bit before walking off to the sideline under his own power. However, he did not go into the medical tent to be evaluated for a concussion and returned to the game a couple plays later.
Look at the video again. Check out how violent the hit was and Watt’s initial reaction. And then tell us that it makes sense he wasn’t tested for a concussion.
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For an NFL that supposedly prides itself on player safety, this just isn’t acceptable. Regardless of Watt’s status as one of the faces of the league, you can’t have him come back in a game after taking a hit like that without being evaluated for a concussion.
Those watching the game noticed the same thing, too.
The NFL simply needs to do better.
