Spine surgeons in Texas examined Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeVonte Holloman after he incurred a preseason neck injury and advised against returning to play, according to a Dallas News report.
Cowboys team physicians Dan Cooper, MD, and Andrew Dossett, MD, both looked at Mr. Holloman's MRI after he sustained a neck injury during a preseason game. Both recommended he retire from the National Football League to prevent further damage that could lead to paralysis.
Mr. Holloman may need spinal fusion to repair the injury, according to the report. He previously sustained a spinal contusion in practice and underwent a minor neck procedure last season. Mr. Holloman reported some tingling in his hands.
This is the second retirement recommendation for an NFL player sustaining a spinal injury during play since the 2014 preseason began. New York Giants running back David Wilson also experienced adverse symptoms from a neck injury and Frank Cammisa, MD, advised he retire from football. Mr. Wilson took Dr. Cammisa's advice and was highly praised for his graceful exit from the game.
Neither Mr. Holloman nor Mr. Wilson will need surgery to live a comfortable life outside of football, according to the report.