With all the latest hoopla on Big Ben’s concussion and Hines not really giving a rat’s ass about it, we are reminded about the major concussion problem that the NFL sort of faces but not really.  There have been countless studies on the subject (here’s one) and if the league doesn’t take it more seriously we’re gonna have some major problems later on.

Sure these guys are warriors on the field but it’s been proven that some concussions have led to depression and even suicide.  Yeah, a glorious 10 seasons but then a possible nightmare for your next 50.

In any event here are 5 notable players who suffered multiple concussions in their careers.

Ben Roethlisberger – 6

It seems like the guy is getting a concussion every week doesn’t it?  But he’s only had 6.  Yeah, only.  But here’s the kicker.  Big Ben has had 4 recorded concussions on the field and 2 off the field involving his motorcycle.  I mean there are guys and there are guys.  You don’t get much more guy than Ben Roethlisberger.

Steve Young – 6

All I can say is that it felt like Steve Young was a walking concussion.  That there’s only six recorded concussions for him is a complete mystery to me.  Guy was getting smashed on the head at least 5 times a game.  He was little, he was fast, and he was one of the greatest.  Certainly the greatest lefty QB of all time.

Al Toon – 9

Word is Jets receiver Al Toon suffered 8 concussions in 8 consecutive seasons.   And I guess a ninth was fitted in there somewhere.  Did you know that he now owns a bank?  Way to go Mr. Toon!  Guy’s last name is Toon.  I kind of like that.

Troy Aikman – 10

It would appear no one suffered more beatings as a quarterback than Troy Aikman.  I remember after about concussion 5 when announcers would even say stuff like “you gotta wonder if the guy should keep playing.”  Well he kept playing and will go down as one of the best ever.  Of course I’m pretty sure those concussions made him gay but whatever.

Ted Johnson – Over 100

From an article I just read:

These days, the former linebacker is less likely to recount the hundreds of tackles, scores of quarterback sacks or the three Super Bowl rings he earned as a linebacker for the New England Patriots. He is more likely to talk about suffering more than 100 concussions

Now, not all of these were on the football field but rumor has it Johnson had a shitload playing football including multiple back to back concussion incidents. This is a great article on the subject.  Poor guy