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Bradshaw: 70s NFL Hits Led to Knockouts, Playing On
9 Jun
Summary
- Bradshaw was knocked out and returned to play in the same 1972 playoff game.
- He played at 275 pounds, contrasting with today's larger NFL players.
- Modern NFL prioritizes player safety, especially regarding concussions.
Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw recounted the intense physicality of 1970s NFL football, recalling a game where he was knocked unconscious. During the 1972 AFC Championship against the undefeated Miami Dolphins, Bradshaw suffered a severe hit after a fumble recovery. He lost consciousness and only returned to the game in the fourth quarter, despite the severity of his injury.
Bradshaw also commented on the evolution of player size and safety in the NFL. He pointed out that key players from his era, like Joe Greene and Jack Lambert, played at considerably lighter weights than many modern linemen and linebackers. Bradshaw believes many 1970s players might not succeed today due to the sheer size of current athletes. The modern NFL has made significant advancements in player safety protocols, particularly concerning concussions.
