Football is about to start and I’m pumped. A game of strength, speed and skill, it takes complex strategy decisions to succeed. With 22 players in every play, the variables are endless. And, besides, maybe my hometown Cowboys will do it this year! ( Don’t bet on it!)

But, the ugly spectrum of chronic injury is now being revealed. Orthopedic damage has been followed for decades, but now the results of repeated head blows and closed head injuries are becoming more evident. Being hit in the hard or knocked unconscious has lasting damage. Older players have early dementia and mood lability with severe depression. A high price to pay for a boyhood game. So, why is this happening now?

Head injuries have been present since football began, but older players were not systematically followed. The players now are also much larger and faster, resulting in higher velocity impacts. A player now can expect repeated head trauma and concussions and likely residual brain injury from playing. This applies to any player above the High School level.

So, who is at fault, and who pays for these players injuries? The leagues? Us, the spectators? Society? A difficult question, and a tragedy for those who did not know the risk. Currently, however, every child who plays this sport and continues as an adult does know the risk. They must be properly counseled and protected by rules and equipment, but like all high risk activities, the participant voluntarily choses. I will also think of this when I watch and support football, knowing I’m contributing to the demand drawing kids to this fate. I would not want anyone I cared about playing this game at any level. You will need your brain later in life. The cost is just too high.