Concussion: Indianapolis Colts WR Austin Collie avoids committing vs Chicago Bears – NFL News
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Austin Collie has admitted facing difficulty in making himself available for the season opener against the Chicago Bears this Sunday, saying he expects himself to be a day-to-day decision.
Austin has been taking a very cautious approach since being diagnosed with the latest concussion in the preseason, which is unfortunately his third since 2010.
Earlier, the team and teammates had boasted about fitness of Collie to an extent as if he had not suffered the injury at all, but the player did not look as comfortable and convinced since his return to practice on Monday as he was before the second game
of the preseason when the injury occurred.
Collie said of the situation:
"We're just going to continue to see how I feel. I don't want to make a definite statement of `yes' I am playing on Sunday, `no' I'm not playing on Sunday because we still have time. I want to see how things go today, want to see how things go tomorrow and
I'll go from there."
He nevertheless has thanked the fans and family for showing up their support at the time of difficulties. He said:
"I'm grateful that I have fans that want what's best for me. But I think me and my family are the only ones who know what's best for me. It's our decision. This is our life, my career."
The extra caution from the player makes sense, given the number of issues the players who suffer concussions during their pro career face in the post-retirement life. It is rather a period ordeal for them and their families with very little help from outside.
The situation also has a financial hardship aspect that can potentially ruin their family institutions.
Collie’s situation is particularly a matter of concern for him and his family more than anyone else, as offensive coordinator Bruce Arians has ruled out making any change to the scheme, saying the player does not face any safety issue.
Some commentators have expressed reservations over the coach’s stance saying the receiver most of the time stays in the middle of the field and is prone to hits from opponents.
Tags: