Cleveland Browns wide receiver Elijah Moore is facing calls to retire after a concerning concussion during a game against the New York Jets. Moore entered concussion protocol after slamming his head into the turf during the second quarter, resulting in visible convulsions, before being assisted off the field by the Browns training staff.
Dr. Bennet Omalu, the inspiration behind the movie “Concussion,” expressed his recommendation for Moore to step away from football. According to Omalu, Moore’s apparent seizure on the field indicates brain damage and permanent injury. He suggests that if Moore intends to return to the sport, he should remain sidelined for at least three months.
Despite spending a night in the hospital, Moore has been released and is recuperating at home. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski provided a positive update on Moore’s condition, stating that he’s “doing better.” Stefanski acknowledged the inherent scariness of such incidents but commended Moore for his on-field performance against the Jets, even though he played only half the game.
Moore’s truncated game against the Jets was notably impressive, with five catches for 61 yards and a touchdown. This performance adds to his career-year statistics in Cleveland, boasting 640 yards on 59 catches—both career highs.
While praising Moore’s contributions, Stefanski also addressed the absence of Amari Cooper during the Jets game. Cooper, nursing a heel injury sustained in the previous game against the Houston Texans, was unable to participate in the Jets matchup despite a record-setting performance against the Texans with 265 yards on 11 catches and two touchdowns.
The Browns are uncertain about Cooper’s availability for their upcoming season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 7. Stefanski acknowledged Cooper’s efforts to play against the Jets but highlighted the importance of rest in determining his condition for the next week. The possibility of resting starters for the final week of the season is also considered, contingent on the Browns’ chances at securing the AFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the postseason.
The outcome of the Baltimore Ravens’ game against the Miami Dolphins will play a crucial role in the Browns’ playoff positioning. If the Ravens win, the Browns, likely locked into the No. 5 seed, may opt to rest key players in Week 18, prioritizing their health for the upcoming postseason challenges.
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