Typically speaking, six days isn’t regarded as a long period of time, but for former Jets linebacker Eric Barton (2004-2008), it represents the difference between life and death.
A little over a year ago, Barton went to the doctor for back pain he figured was a natural ramification of his playing days. Shortly thereafter, the 39-year-old would quickly become the recipient of a bone-crushing hit, something he was usually on the other end of throughout his 12-year career.
“My back was hurting, so I went to get an MRI because I could barely walk or bend over,” he said.