Family of ‘Dirtiest Player’ Conrad Dobler Makes Ultimate Sacrifice to Help With CTE Research

Conrad Dobler, known as the  ‘dirtiest player’ during his time in the league, passed away on Monday. Aged 72, the former Cardinals star had over ten years in the NFL. His reputation as a protector made him stand out among his peers. A force to be reckoned with, Dobler took his reputation in stride.

As his family and the rest of the NFL world mourn this loss, his children came forward to reveal that the former offensive lineman still had one more contribution to the game.

Conrad Dobler experienced the dangerous side of the game

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE is a degenerative brain disease caused by trauma to the head. For a game as physical as football, the concern over players’ well-being with regard to this condition has been increasing. As a condition that can be diagnosed only after death, it is a matter of great concern. Now, Dobler’s passing presented his family with an opportunity to aid this pertinent cause.

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Recently, the Boston University CTE Center announced that out of the 376 former players they had studied, they were able to diagnose 345 with CTE. The symptoms of this degenerative condition include memory loss, aggressive behavior, and depression, among others.

In 2016, Conrad Dobler mentioned his struggles with memory and recall. Speaking to USA Today, the former NFL star stated that he didn’t know his children’s names. His struggles propelled him to help in whatever way he could so that those who came after him would not have to experience the same. After his death, his children stated that Dobler’s brain would be donated for research. Apart from that, the former lineman’s spine and other tissue will also be studied at Boston University.

Dobler’s donation will not go in vain

According to his daughter, the former lineman struggled on a daily basis with memory, recall, and decision-making. She also mentioned that his condition became worse over time. According to the family, the results of the study of his brain are said to be available in 9-12 months.

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The risk posed to athletes’ health because of game-related trauma is high. While the league is trying to enforce the highest standards with regard to safety, certain consequences remain intact. Despite that, the league’s stars take the field to do what they love. Conrad Dobler’s family wanted to aid in the research of a condition that poses a threat to many. According to them, Dobler wanted to donate his brain so that players could have better futures. His act of service for the betterment of the game’s future and the safety of those who came after him is truly admirable.