Chris Borland shocked the NFL world when he decided to announce his retirement from the sport after just one season, at the age of 24.
Borland was one of the best defensive rookies in the league last year, recording over 100 tackles and two interceptions for San Francisco. However, that wasn’t quite enough for Borland. Citing the health risks associated with concussions and other head trauma, Borland said it was time to walk away.
Regrettably but predictably, Borland’s choice was met with a lot of smarm, derision, or both from the national NFL mediasphere. VICE Sports has an excellent summary of the situation, but suffice to say recognizable writers like Adam Schefter and Mike Florio come out looking like fools here.
One ex-player who was quick to have Borland’s back was former Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett. He took to twitter to urge fans and pundits to consider the socio-economic implications at hand in Borland’s thought process.
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
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