More stories of former players dealing with the ravages of pro football's toll on the mind and body come to light in the months and years following the NFL's settlement in a concussion lawsuit. Sports Illustrated did a feature on former Miami Dolphins linebacker and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Nick Buoniconti, who also played for the 1972 undefeated Miami team. Buoniconti suffers from the injuries to his brain that occurred during his career in the NFL, and believes the NFL needs to do more to raise awareness about the issue and take care of its former players.
From tough-guy captain of the Miami Dolphins’ perfect team to driven force behind the nation’s premier spinal-cord research program, Nick Buoniconti was always in charge, always on top. Now, as his body and mind succumb to the ravages of football, he and his loved ones are left angry, confused and grasping to understand.
Video: Sports Illustrated