Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook acknowledged this week that he’s concerned about how the concussions he suffered this season could affect the rest of his life.
Eagles coach Andy Reid says he shares those concerns.
“He’s had a couple concussions, he’s been nicked and bruised in his legs, and I just want him to be healthy,” Reid said of Westbrook today on ESPN Radio’s Mike and Mike in the Morning.
“I want him to be able to live a life after football,” Reid said. “Where he can function and think and do all those things.”
Reid referred to the 30-year-old Westbrook as a “kid” multiple times during the interview, and he seems to feel very protective toward the running back who has played for him since he entered the league in 2002. And Reid said it’s important to him for Westbrook to be candid about whether he’s experiencing post-concussion symptoms.
“I know he wants to play, but I also want to know how he feels,” Reid said.
And in talking about Westbrook Reid may have hit on the biggest challenge for the NFL related to concussions: Convincing the players themselves to come out and say so if they’re feeling symptoms.
“This is a tough business,” Reid said. “These guys are tough guys. And if they don’t say anything then you’re never going to know. There’s nothing you can do about that part of it, but if you have indicators I don’t think you can turn your back to them.”
I doubt Westbrook will see any game action before the playoffs start – if then.
It’s sad if BW has to go. He’s still a major force if healthy. He’s not lost much at all.
westy should hang it up, class act all the way, get out while you can.
If Everyone is so concerned why is he coming back this year? Release his sorry ass. He’s washed up now. Not worth the sweat on my b*lls any more. Get out of town. Cya
As a GIANT FAN, BUT, football fan first, I have
tried to post this on THE EAGLES blog without
success. Brian Westbrook is ALL you want in a
player! He does it all, and has killed the Giants
with his skill, running, receiving, blocking and anything else he has been asked to do!
He is 30 years old and has nothing to prove, nothing! Ask any GIANT fan! That said, I hope that Andy Reid his coach, the guy who can say,
Brian, I will not let you continue to play because
to do so might cause serious life long injury! NO
player like Westbrook will admit “He should not play”, so who else can prevent him from further
damage? Who’s to blame if he gets knocked out
again? Brian Westbrook is a young man, his whole
life is just begining, I hope he gets the opportunity to enjoy it, and KNOW IT! Good luck
Brian, your a Hell of a Player!
There would be no shame at all if BW were to retire tomorrow. He’s always going to be beloved by Philly fans for all his hard work and memorable games!
As a DeMatha alumn myself, I hope he takes some time to weigh his options. Life AFTER the sport is what really counts!!
As a Giant fan, but first a Football Fan, Brian Westbrook has done it all and allot of it to the GIANTS! He is 1000 percent player running,
receiving, blocking, even as a returner. He is only 30! If Andy Reid says, “He’s concerned”, he has
a responsibility to say NO-MORE! “Brian I’m not
taking the chance to put you into “OutterSpace”
for the rest of your life”. Brian, your effort alone
defines you, I hope you enjoy life, and know it!
Reid is a stand up dude.
” … the biggest challenge for the NFL related to concussions: Convincing the players themselves to come out and say so if they’re feeling symptoms …”
Similar to the challenges faced by veteranarians and pediatricians working with babies.
Man thats some fatherly concern from a guy that has 2 sons that are hardcore junkie, criminal, convicts.
He must have “turned his back” on those “indicators”.
It’s obvious andys biggest concerns always came after he arrived at work.
“andy knows best” LOL !
@ mikeoxlong -
You are one of those douchebags that blames everything that goes wrong in your life on your parents aren’t you? Oh my tough childhood…shut up and be responsible for your own actions.
I think mikeoxlong just ate too many paint chips as a child!