Johnson played 10 seasons in the NFL
Associated Press
FOXBORO, Mass. -- The blurred vision, the memory loss and the sleeplessness were too much for Ted Johnson to ignore. So he gave up the game he loves, retiring from the New England Patriots rather than risk irreparable brain damage.
Johnson's surprise announcement came Thursday, the day before he was to start his 11th NFL training camp, all with the Patriots. It followed by eight days the decision by the other starting inside linebacker, Tedy Bruschi, to sit out the season following his minor stroke last February.
Johnson said he was diagnosed with about six concussions during his football career and fought through their effects. But a visit to his personal doctor after last season led to his decision.
"Something didn't feel right with my body, really, this whole offseason," Johnson said. His doctor found "enough evidence to have serious concerns for some head trauma."
...
