James Tedesco, the fullback for the champion Sydney Roosters, has stated that he doesn’t think his history of concussions would be a hindrance to his career.
The concussion Tedesco suffered on Friday night during the unexpected loss to the Connecticut Bulldogs at Accor Stadium—a wet and rowdy game—is his ninth in his career and his seventh in the previous three years.
The former Wests Tiger has missed numerous games in recent years due to head injuries. Since making his NRL debut in 2012, he has played in 231 games (the last 141 of which have been with the Sydney Roosters). He has also participated in 22 Origin matches for New South Wales and 12 Test matches for Australia.
However, the most recent one raised concerns about his possible long-term prognosis. Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, the team, the state, and national captain said he doesn’t see it like that.
“Of course, I don’t take it like that,” Tedesco told the publication when asked if the latest head knock could be career-threatening.
“People are going to make comments, that’s all part of the game. These are all very individual circumstances, what the players feel when they are going through it.
“From my end, at the moment, I feel good. I’m up and about, I’ve definitely had worse ones where I’ve felt more foggy and had headaches. But I’ve woken up this morning after a good sleep and I’m feeling pretty good.”
The fullback said the experiences many of his current and former teammates, including Jake Friend, Boyd Cordner and Luke Keary, have had in recent years, means he is in the best hands at the Roosters who have a strong reputation for putting player safety first following head knocks.
Tedesco himself as at times been held back longer than the NRL requirement following a head knock.
“I’m in the best hands; they always look after their players at the Roosters. They are very adamant that our health comes first,” the star said.
“Guys who have experienced problems in the past have received excellent care. After receiving some serious injuries from several of their head blows, those individuals were sent on leave.
“You have to accept it as it comes, but I’ll continue taking care of myself to ensure a full recovery for both my body and mind.”
Tedesco added that his most recent concussion hasn’t caused any significant adverse effects.
In spite of this, he will still be subject to the NFL’s 11-day holdout and will miss the Roosters’ next Round 6 away match against the Newcastle Knights.
Sam Walker, who is injured, and Dominic Young, who is suspended, will join him on the sidelines. As the tri-colors look to make a comeback to the winner’s circle.
