Playing in the National Football League can be quite lucrative, but it can also come with a lifetime of pain after the playing days are over.
Zak Keefer of The Athletic published a story this week which documented the life of former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Jeff Herrod. He played for the Colts (1988-96, 98) and Philadelphia Eagles (1997) and is now dealing with the long-term effects of concussions and a myriad of other injuries.
Keefer showed a picture of his fingers and basically, all of them looked mangled.
His fingers are a constant reminder of the toll an 11-year career as an NFL linebacker can have on the body.
The ninth-round draft pick out of the University of Mississippi in 1988 averaged almost 140 tackles and three sacks per season but was never selected to play in the Pro Bowl.
He finished with about 1,300 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns.
