12/30/2025
It was sad to hear that Ryan Kelly, center for the Minnesota Vikings ended up with his third concussion of the 2025 season in the game against the NY Giants on December 21st. We wonder whether he was really properly cleared after his concussion on week two of this season, or when he returned week four. Our Medical Director and President, Dr. Vincent Schaller, is of the opinion that the Guardian Cap was no help.
The sobering facts are that two concussions within three months have cumulative effects on the brain, and the risks rise even more when there are three concussions in three months. Multiple concussions in one season can lead to long term post-concussion syndrome (PCS) symptoms and deficits, including visual and cognitive problems, insomnia, headaches, migraines, auditory troubles and mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
"I understand that competitive athletes like Kelly don’t want to admit that they have a concussion when the injuries occur during the NFL season. But, concussions are traumatic brain injuries that no one should take lightly," says Dr. Schaller. "When athletes shake off concussion symptoms to 'fight another day,' they are ignoring their body’s warning system telling them that their brain is still injured, and is still vulnerable to even more serious, debilitating and long-lasting damage. As Kelly enters injured reserve and gets the full medical care he needs, I wish him all the best for a full recovery."
https://www.reuters.com/sports/vikings-place-c-ryan-kelly-ir-after-latest-concussion--flm-2025-12-25/
