Jacksonville Jaguars starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence was put into concussion protocol after a brutal late hit. Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair was the player to hit Lawrence after the play.
ESPN shared that the NFL decided to suspend Al-Shaair for three games. They ruled the suspension a violation of safety rules.
Lawrence was then diagnosed with a concussion that would keep him out of the game for the rest of the season. The Texans held onto the lead, to win 23-20.
This is not Lawrence’s first concussion, there is one other instance where Lawrence received a concussion. Last year, during week 15 against the Baltimore Ravens, he sustained his first concussion in the NFL. The concussions that he has received may have long-term effects on Lawrence that could last for the rest of his life.
Concussions are serious brain injuries that can lead to symptoms like headaches, confusion, and dizziness. American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), these injuries typically result from impacts to the head. If they occur repeatedly, they may cause long-term issues, such as memory loss.
One major concern with repeated concussions is the risk of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a brain disease that gets worse over time and it can lead to memory loss, poor judgment, aggression, and depression.
Sleep issues are also common after a concussion. Many people have trouble sleeping or experience changes in their sleep quality, which can worsen other difficulties. You may receive insomnia or other sleep problems within the first couple of weeks of the concussion.
Overall, while many people recover from a single concussion without serious long-term effects, repeated injuries can lead to chronic problems like Parkinsons and Alzheimers. It is important to prevent concussions and to address them quickly if they happen. The AANS recommends seeking medical help after a concussion to help reduce the risk of further injury.
According to the Florida Times-Union, Lawrence is still recovering from his latest concussion, will be out for the next four games, and will return for the season finale. Coach Doug Pederson said in a recent interview that Lawrence would miss the rest of the season to get surgery on his shoulder.
