Former Ohio State linebacker Joshua Perry has decided to retire from football at the young age of 24 due to concerns about brain health. In a statement shared on Twitter, Perry expressed his gratitude for the game of football but stated that recent worries about concussions and the well-being of his brain led him to step away from the sport.
Perry revealed that he has suffered six documented concussions, with his most recent one being a cause for great concern. It occurred during a seemingly ordinary situation, rather than a high-impact play, which added to his worries. The linebacker emphasized that he did not want to put his brain health and future at risk for the sake of a game and a paycheck.
Perry was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round of the 2016 draft. As a rookie, he recorded eight tackles in 15 games. He then went on to appear in two games for the Indianapolis Colts in 2017 before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in June.
During his time at Ohio State, Perry had an impressive career. In 2014, the same season the Buckeyes won the College Football Playoff, he led the team with 124 tackles. The following year, he ranked second with 105 tackles.
Perry’s decision to retire shines a light on the ongoing debate surrounding player safety and the long-term effects of concussions in football. It serves as a reminder of the risks associated with the sport, even at the professional level.
The news of Perry’s retirement comes shortly after another former linebacker, Mike McCray of the University of Michigan, also announced his decision to step away from football at the age of 24. These retirements highlight the growing concerns about brain health among young players and raise questions about the steps being taken to protect athletes in contact sports.
While Perry’s retirement marks the end of his football career at a young age, his decision should be respected as a personal choice made with his long-term well-being in mind. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of prioritizing player safety in a sport that can have significant physical consequences.
As the conversation around brain health in football continues, it is crucial for organizations, teams, and players to work together to find ways to mitigate the risks associated with the sport. The retirement of young players like Perry underscores the need for ongoing research, improved safety protocols, and increased awareness of the potential long-term effects of concussions.
While Perry’s retirement may come as a disappointment to fans and football enthusiasts, it serves as a poignant reminder that the health and well-being of athletes should always be the top priority. As the discussion around brain health in sports evolves, it is crucial to find a balance between the love of the game and the long-term health of the players who participate in it.
