GITNUX REPORT 2024

NFL Injuries: Concussions, Spinal Issues, and Career-Altering Risks Revealed

Injuries plague NFL players, from concussions to career-altering risks. A deep dive into statistics.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

Acute traumatic injuries account for 75% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 2

Fractures occur at a rate of 0.3 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 3

Ligament sprains account for 30% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 4

Muscle strains occur at a rate of 1.5 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 5

Contusions account for 15% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 6

Dislocations occur at a rate of 0.1 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 7

Lacerations account for 2% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 8

The average NFL career lasts 3.3 years

Statistic 9

78% of NFL players go bankrupt or are under financial stress within two years of retirement

Statistic 10

NFL players have a 59% higher risk of premature death compared to MLB players

Statistic 11

50% of NFL players retire due to injury

Statistic 12

NFL players have a 37% higher risk of neurodegenerative disease compared to the general population

Statistic 13

The average NFL player loses 2-3 years of life expectancy

Statistic 14

93% of NFL players who have played for 4 or more years show signs of CTE

Statistic 15

The NFL spent $800 million on injury-related costs in 2019

Statistic 16

NFL players have a 65% chance of sustaining a career-altering injury

Statistic 17

The average NFL player experiences a 20% decrease in quality of life post-retirement due to injuries

Statistic 18

NFL players have a 52% higher risk of developing osteoarthritis compared to the general population

Statistic 19

25% of NFL players report chronic pain after retirement

Statistic 20

NFL players have a 70% higher risk of sleep apnea compared to the general population

Statistic 21

49% of NFL players sustain at least one concussion during their career

Statistic 22

Concussions account for 7.4% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 23

The average NFL player suffers 2-3 concussions during their career

Statistic 24

NFL players are 3 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases than the general population

Statistic 25

Quarterbacks and wide receivers have the highest concussion rates in the NFL

Statistic 26

NFL players with a history of concussions are 1.5 times more likely to develop depression

Statistic 27

Concussion rates in the NFL decreased by 25% from 2018 to 2019

Statistic 28

Heat-related illnesses account for 1.5% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 29

Exertional heat stroke occurs at a rate of 0.01 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 30

90% of heat-related illnesses in the NFL occur during preseason training

Statistic 31

Hypothermia accounts for 0.5% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 32

Lightning strikes account for 0.01% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 33

Frostbite occurs at a rate of 0.001 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 34

Sun exposure-related skin conditions account for 0.2% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 35

Lower extremity injuries account for 60% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 36

Knee injuries make up 20% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 37

ACL injuries occur at a rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 38

68% of NFL players return to play after an ACL injury

Statistic 39

Ankle sprains account for 15% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 40

NFL players have a 40% higher risk of developing arthritis compared to the general population

Statistic 41

Hamstring injuries account for 13% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 42

Overuse injuries account for 25% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 43

Tendinitis occurs at a rate of 0.5 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 44

Stress fractures account for 2% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 45

Bursitis occurs at a rate of 0.3 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 46

Plantar fasciitis accounts for 1.5% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 47

Shin splints occur at a rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 48

Carpal tunnel syndrome accounts for 0.5% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 49

Spinal injuries account for 7% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 50

Cervical spine injuries occur at a rate of 0.02 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 51

Lumbar spine injuries account for 5% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 52

70% of NFL players return to play after a cervical spine injury

Statistic 53

NFL players have a 3 times higher risk of developing spinal stenosis compared to the general population

Statistic 54

Herniated discs account for 2% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 55

Spinal cord injuries occur at a rate of 0.003 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 56

Upper extremity injuries account for 30% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 57

Shoulder injuries make up 10% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 58

Rotator cuff injuries occur at a rate of 0.21 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 59

85% of NFL players return to play after a shoulder dislocation

Statistic 60

Wrist and hand injuries account for 8% of all NFL injuries

Statistic 61

Elbow injuries occur at a rate of 0.08 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Statistic 62

Finger fractures account for 3% of all NFL injuries

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Summary

  • 49% of NFL players sustain at least one concussion during their career
  • Concussions account for 7.4% of all NFL injuries
  • The average NFL player suffers 2-3 concussions during their career
  • NFL players are 3 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases than the general population
  • Quarterbacks and wide receivers have the highest concussion rates in the NFL
  • NFL players with a history of concussions are 1.5 times more likely to develop depression
  • Concussion rates in the NFL decreased by 25% from 2018 to 2019
  • Lower extremity injuries account for 60% of all NFL injuries
  • Knee injuries make up 20% of all NFL injuries
  • ACL injuries occur at a rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • 68% of NFL players return to play after an ACL injury
  • Ankle sprains account for 15% of all NFL injuries
  • NFL players have a 40% higher risk of developing arthritis compared to the general population
  • Hamstring injuries account for 13% of all NFL injuries
  • Upper extremity injuries account for 30% of all NFL injuries

Breaking News: NFL Players Battle It Out on the Field, But Injuries Score Their Own Touchdowns Off the Field! From concussions to career-altering injuries, the statistics paint a colorful portrait of the high-stakes game of American football. With an average of 2-3 concussions per player, it seems the real hits keep coming long after the final whistle. So grab your helmet and buckle up as we dive into the bone-crunching world of NFL injuries – where even frostbite and lightning strikes make the lineup!

Acute Traumatic Injuries

  • Acute traumatic injuries account for 75% of all NFL injuries
  • Fractures occur at a rate of 0.3 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Ligament sprains account for 30% of all NFL injuries
  • Muscle strains occur at a rate of 1.5 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Contusions account for 15% of all NFL injuries
  • Dislocations occur at a rate of 0.1 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Lacerations account for 2% of all NFL injuries

Interpretation

In the brutal ballet of the NFL, it seems the players are more likely to break bones than break a sweat, with fractures occurring at a rate of 0.3 per 1000 athlete-exposures. Ligaments are getting all twisted up, accounting for 30% of injuries, while muscles are 'straining' to keep up at 1.5 per 1000 exposures. Contusions are the love taps of the league, making up 15% of the hurt locker, while dislocations are the rare, but dramatic exits at 0.1 per 1000 exposures. And amidst the blood, sweat, and tears, lacerations make a mere 2% cameo, perhaps reminding us that for NFL players, a paper cut can be just as perilous as a hard hit.

Career Impact

  • The average NFL career lasts 3.3 years
  • 78% of NFL players go bankrupt or are under financial stress within two years of retirement
  • NFL players have a 59% higher risk of premature death compared to MLB players
  • 50% of NFL players retire due to injury
  • NFL players have a 37% higher risk of neurodegenerative disease compared to the general population
  • The average NFL player loses 2-3 years of life expectancy
  • 93% of NFL players who have played for 4 or more years show signs of CTE
  • The NFL spent $800 million on injury-related costs in 2019
  • NFL players have a 65% chance of sustaining a career-altering injury
  • The average NFL player experiences a 20% decrease in quality of life post-retirement due to injuries
  • NFL players have a 52% higher risk of developing osteoarthritis compared to the general population
  • 25% of NFL players report chronic pain after retirement
  • NFL players have a 70% higher risk of sleep apnea compared to the general population

Interpretation

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, the glitz and glory on the field often overshadow the harsh realities lurking just beyond the end zone. The statistics paint a sobering picture of sacrifice and struggle: from financial turmoil to physical tolls that cut short careers and lives. These numbers are more than just stats on a page; they're a stark reminder that behind the bright lights and roaring crowds, there lies a darker side of the game that demands our attention and empathy. As we cheer on our favorite players, let's not forget the price they pay for our entertainment, and let's advocate for their health and well-being both during and after their time under the spotlight.

Concussions

  • 49% of NFL players sustain at least one concussion during their career
  • Concussions account for 7.4% of all NFL injuries
  • The average NFL player suffers 2-3 concussions during their career
  • NFL players are 3 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases than the general population
  • Quarterbacks and wide receivers have the highest concussion rates in the NFL
  • NFL players with a history of concussions are 1.5 times more likely to develop depression
  • Concussion rates in the NFL decreased by 25% from 2018 to 2019

Interpretation

In a league where hard hits are celebrated and toughness is revered, the grim reality of NFL injuries cannot be ignored. With nearly half of players experiencing at least one concussion in their career, it's evident that the toll on these athletes' brains is profound. The statistic that quarterbacks and wide receivers bear the brunt of these head injuries is a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in their positions. The fact that concussions account for only 7.4% of all NFL injuries yet have such a significant impact on players' long-term health underscores the need for continued vigilance and ongoing research into brain trauma in sports. While it's encouraging to see a decrease in concussion rates recently, the stark correlation between concussions and neurodegenerative diseases highlights the harsh realities that these players face long after they hang up their cleats.

Environmental Injuries

  • Heat-related illnesses account for 1.5% of all NFL injuries
  • Exertional heat stroke occurs at a rate of 0.01 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • 90% of heat-related illnesses in the NFL occur during preseason training
  • Hypothermia accounts for 0.5% of all NFL injuries
  • Lightning strikes account for 0.01% of all NFL injuries
  • Frostbite occurs at a rate of 0.001 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Sun exposure-related skin conditions account for 0.2% of all NFL injuries

Interpretation

In the high-octane world of the NFL, where players are known for their blazing speed and icy cool under pressure, it seems Mother Nature is a formidable opponent as well. While hypothermia, lightning strikes, and even frostbite make cameo appearances in the injury statistics, it's the sizzling sun that takes center stage with its heat-related illnesses. Like a relentless defensive lineman, the sun beats down, causing preseason training to be a sweltering battlefield for players. So next time you think football is just about brute force and strategy, remember that sometimes it's also about outwitting the elements.

Lower Extremity Injuries

  • Lower extremity injuries account for 60% of all NFL injuries
  • Knee injuries make up 20% of all NFL injuries
  • ACL injuries occur at a rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • 68% of NFL players return to play after an ACL injury
  • Ankle sprains account for 15% of all NFL injuries
  • NFL players have a 40% higher risk of developing arthritis compared to the general population
  • Hamstring injuries account for 13% of all NFL injuries

Interpretation

In the high-stakes game of NFL, lower extremity injuries are the MVPs of injury statistics, dominating the field at 60%. Knee injuries strut their stuff, claiming a respectable 20% share, while the elusive ACL injury prances in at a nimble rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures. Fear not, for 68% of NFL warriors return to battle after conquering the dreaded ACL. Ankle sprains twist and turn for attention at 15%, while the looming specter of arthritis shadows players with a 40% higher risk than the average Joe. Hamstring injuries, the sneaky ninjas of the injury world, stealthily claim 13% of the gridiron's casualties. In this savage ballet of bone and sinew, NFL athletes navigate a perilous dance where the only certainty is the ever-present threat of injury.

Overuse Injuries

  • Overuse injuries account for 25% of all NFL injuries
  • Tendinitis occurs at a rate of 0.5 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Stress fractures account for 2% of all NFL injuries
  • Bursitis occurs at a rate of 0.3 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Plantar fasciitis accounts for 1.5% of all NFL injuries
  • Shin splints occur at a rate of 0.2 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome accounts for 0.5% of all NFL injuries

Interpretation

While NFL players are known for their superhuman abilities on the field, behind the scenes, they are not immune to the mundane yet painful afflictions that plague us all. From tendinitis to shin splints, and even carpal tunnel syndrome, these statistics highlight the toll that the grind of professional football takes on the body. It's a reminder that even the mightiest of athletes are not invincible, and the price of pushing the limits can sometimes be paid in injuries that are as common as they are debilitating.

Spinal Injuries

  • Spinal injuries account for 7% of all NFL injuries
  • Cervical spine injuries occur at a rate of 0.02 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Lumbar spine injuries account for 5% of all NFL injuries
  • 70% of NFL players return to play after a cervical spine injury
  • NFL players have a 3 times higher risk of developing spinal stenosis compared to the general population
  • Herniated discs account for 2% of all NFL injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries occur at a rate of 0.003 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL

Interpretation

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, where bone-crushing tackles are the norm, spinal injuries present a formidable opponent to the players on the field. With statistics revealing a complex landscape of risks and recoveries, it's clear that navigating the treacherous terrain of the spine is a game of inches. While the numbers may seem daunting, the resilience of these athletes persists, demonstrating that even in the face of spinal troubles, the will to return to play is a force to be reckoned with.

Upper Extremity Injuries

  • Upper extremity injuries account for 30% of all NFL injuries
  • Shoulder injuries make up 10% of all NFL injuries
  • Rotator cuff injuries occur at a rate of 0.21 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • 85% of NFL players return to play after a shoulder dislocation
  • Wrist and hand injuries account for 8% of all NFL injuries
  • Elbow injuries occur at a rate of 0.08 per 1000 athlete-exposures in the NFL
  • Finger fractures account for 3% of all NFL injuries

Interpretation

In the realm of NFL injuries, it seems upper extremities are the real MVPs, accounting for a whopping 30% of all woes on the field. From dislocated shoulders to finger fractures, these body parts have taken quite the beating. The shoulder, with its 10% share of injuries, must be feeling pretty popular among players. And let's not forget the elbow, with a rate of 0.08 injuries per 1000 exposures - a reminder to always keep that joint well-lubricated for optimal performance. With 85% of players making a triumphant return after a shoulder dislocation, it's clear they can shake it off and get back in the game. As for wrist, hand, and finger injuries, they may be smaller in percentage, but they pack a punch in pain. So, next time you see an NFL player in a sling or splint, just remember - it's all in a day's work for these warriors of the gridiron.

References