Chilkoot has passed along this beautifully written ode to former Chargers defensive back Terrence Kiel, who died in a car accident last month. It's penned by Buzz Bissinger, who created a major stir in the blogosphere not long ago by ripping most bloggers to shreds on an HBO special with Bob Costas.
Thanks for that, CC. Well done.
Comments (1)
BG, thanks for sharing. Kiel's story is very sad. He was a gifted football player with some serious mental issues.
Unfortunately, the Chargers don't really seem to have much of an Employee Assistance Program. Kiel was obviously troubled and, so far as the public could tell, the Chargers response was to release him. Shane Olivea, a solid offensive tackle, went from signing a huge contract to being released. Turned out he had become addicted to pain killers while being treated for a back injury. I think the Steelers had a player that went nuts. Not enough room here to list the Cincinatti players that need help.
Perhaps the NFL needs to implement the EAP program and be very aggressive about player involvement. Hire former players to travel to the training facility of each club and actively reach out to help the players. Too many players are doing wacky things.
Or maybe the Union should manage the EAP. Do it in honor of their former great leader Gene Upshaw. (Boy did he play a big part in the misery the Raiders brought to the Chargers for so many years.) May he rest in peace.