Chris Borland
After just one season in the NFL, former Wisconsin Badger Chris Borland says he is retiring due to concerns over longterm damage from repetitive head injuries.
ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” reported Borland’s decision on Monday evening, saying the 24-year-0ld told the San Francisco 49ers of his decision last Friday.
Borland said, “I just honestly want to do what’s best for my health. From what I’ve researched and what I’ve experienced, I don’t think it’s worth the risk.”
Borland led the 49ers in tackles last season with 108, despite not moving into the starting lineup until Week 7.
Borland said he made his decision after extensive research into the relationship between football and Neurodegenerative disease, along with consultation with family, friends, concussion experts and teammates.
“I feel largely the same, as sharp as I’ve ever been, for me it’s wanting to be proactive,” Borland said in his “Outside the Lines” interview. “I’m concerned that if you want till you have symptoms, it’s too late.”
Borland has not suffered any concussions during his time at Wisconsin or during his rookie season in the NFL. He’s been diagnosed with two concussions prior to college.