Chris Borland’s abrupt retirement has shocked many across the football world, and understandably so. He’s only 24 and appeared to have a bright football future ahead of him after a promising rookie season, but ultimately decided that the potential long-term health risks weren’t worth the short-term glory.
His bold decision has prompted a variety of responses from those who play and cover the game, but one of the most surprisingly great pieces of commentary came from the Twitter account of former Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett.
Clarett, 31, was also once a promising young NFL-caliber talent but had his football career derailed by off-the-field issues and poor decision-making. He was dismissed from Ohio State, arrested several times and wound up serving prison time.
On Tuesday morning, he offered up some poignant thoughts on why more players don’t elect to prioritize their safety like Borland and how universities across the country can help change that in the future. It’s definitely worth a read.
In regard to Chris Borland.They should do a study on his upbringing and education. See how he defines success. He probably has a backup plan
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
Lots of guys don't have a backup plan. They get shuffled thru the college ranks and only see football as an option to succeed.
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
They often tolerate the trauma for the paycheck…. No one is right or wrong. It all comes down to quality of life for each individual.
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
For college players having a "degree" is not enough. It's VERY easy for a school to graduate players with "nonsense" degrees.
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
Lots of these universities push classes on players that they would never allow their own children to take.
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
Kids earn schools millions. Let's forget about paying to play… Conversation should be actually educating them so they can be of some value
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
Kid misses practice and he's Criticized and punished to no end…. Kid signs up for "nonsense" classes and no one says a word.
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
Practice, Weightlifting and sprints are valid until about 30 if you're lucky. Education helps to assist family, community, friends etc etc
— Maurice Clarett (@ReeseClarett13) March 17, 2015
