Chris Borland , a leading rookie in 2014 , turned down four-year , $ 3million contract . 'From what I 've researched and what I 've experienced , I do n't think it 's worth the risk , ' he said . The linebacker had thousands concussions prior to making his announcement . A lawsuit filed in 2012 contended that NFL hid dangers of brain injury among players while profiting from sport 's violent physical contact .
Chris Borland , a leading rookie in 2014 , turned down four-year , $ 3million contract . 'From what I 've researched and what I 've experienced , I do n't think it 's worth the risk , ' he said . The linebacker had two concussions prior to making his announcement . A lawsuit filed in 2012 contended that NFL hid dangers of brain injury among players while profiting from sport 's violent physical contact .