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A year and a half ago, Greg Brooks Jr. was viewed as a promising NFL prospect, leading the LSU Tigers as their captain. Now, he faces immense challenges, confined to a wheelchair and struggling to communicate.
Health Crisis Emerges
In September 2023, Brooks reported feeling dizzy and experiencing severe vomiting during practice. Initially, the LSU medical staff diagnosed him with vertigo. However, his condition deteriorated, and over a month later, doctors identified a brain tumor, which necessitated emergency surgery.
Complications from Surgery
Tragically, during the procedure, Brooks endured several strokes. As a result, he is now on a long road to recovery, learning to eat, walk, and write again.
Family’s Pain and Frustration
His father, Greg Brooks Sr., voiced his disappointment regarding the lack of communication from LSU. In a recent interview, he shared, “I thought LSU would have his best interests at heart. I never imagined we would face this level of neglect.”
Further expressing his devastation, Greg Sr. stated, “I was in disbelief, as if I were trapped in a nightmare.” Since his son’s diagnosis, Greg Sr. revealed that he has not heard from Brian Kelly, the head coach at LSU, despite the severe circumstances surrounding his son’s health.
A Plea for Support
“My son almost lost his life, Coach. Where were you?” Greg Sr. implored. “Forget about football. A simple call to express your concern could mean the world.” This sentiment echoes the despair felt by the Brooks family. Their hope for support from the university during this challenging time remains unmet.
Legal Action Against LSU
In August, the Brooks family initiated legal proceedings against LSU, citing negligence. They allege that the university mishandled the situation and that the medical professionals involved were not adequately qualified. The lawsuit contends that LSU staff pressured Brooks to continue playing, even when he felt unwell, threatening his starting position in the process.
“Greg will likely need lifelong care due to the injuries sustained from his medical treatment,” the lawsuit details. “He will never be able to play football again and may remain dependent on others for basic care.”
University’s Response
The university responded to the lawsuit by stating, “While LSU cannot comment on ongoing litigation, Greg Brooks remains in our thoughts and prayers as he continues to work through the rehabilitation process.”
At the time of initial reports, LSU established a donation fund for Brooks, but the family claims those funds were never allocated to support his medical needs.
Brooks’s Football Legacy
Before this tragic turn of events, Brooks showcased his talent on the field. He participated in LSU’s first two games of the 2023 season, following a strong performance in 2022, where he recorded 66 tackles. The Tigers had a challenging season but managed to clinch a victory in the Citrus Bowl against Purdue.
Brooks had transferred to LSU from the University of Arkansas, aiming to embark on a promising career in football. Under different circumstances, he might have recently completed his rookie season in the NFL.
Reflecting on a Bright Future
The Brooks family’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the critical importance of accountability in sports organizations. Amid the ongoing rehabilitation process, the question lingers: will LSU step up to offer the necessary support to one of its former stars who has given so much to the sport?
As the legal process unfolds, the family hopes not only for justice but also for a renewed focus on player health and safety, ensuring no other athlete has to endure such a harrowing experience.
