When James Develin retired due to “unforeseen complications” with a neck injury, you knew it had to be a serious one.
But just how serious?
The Patriots fullback could have been paralyzed if he kept playing due to a spinal issue, according to The Athletic’s Jeff Howe.
“The doctors found that underlying issue that was kind of unrelated to the actual symptoms I had, but somewhat related and potentially way more serious if something were to happen,” Develin told Howe. “Fortunately and unfortunately at my position, contact is the name of the game, so it’s not like I can tippy-toe around and try not to use my head.