Football safety deaths

The tragic deaths of two young football players, 13-year-old Cohen Craddock from West Virginia and a 16-year-old from Alabama, have reignited discussions on youth football safety amid rising concerns about head injuries and heat-related incidents. Cohen's father, Ryan Craddock, advocates for enhanced safety measures rather than eliminating football, reflecting a wider sentiment among parents and experts. In August alone, at least seven young players died, with causes ranging from heat stroke to head injuries, prompting calls for more proactive safety protocols during practices. Dr. Robert Cantu from the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research noted that while three deaths from head injuries in one year are typical, the frequency of fatalities is alarming. The trend of declining youth participation in tackle football and the push towards flag football highlight a shift in how communities view the sport's risks versus its benefits. As the football season approaches, the combination of high contact and extreme heat raises further concerns about player safety.