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Injuries can derail an NFL career as quickly as a mistimed play, sending shockwaves through a team and their devoted fanbase.
This scenario recently played out when Dr. Jesse Morse, a prominent orthopedic surgeon, questioned Kirk Cousins' ability to recover from a severe Achilles tear and effectively contribute to the Atlanta Falcons, whom he signed for this off-season.
Cousins, who signed a staggering 180-million-dollar contract with Atlanta, aimed to demonstrate his value after missing the latter part of the 2023 season due to injury.
Unlike Aaron Rodgers, whose injury impacted his front leg, Cousins suffered a tear in his rear leg-the crucial "power leg" quarterbacks depend on for deep throws.
Dr. Morse highlighted this difference on The Coach JB Show, expressing concerns about Cousins' potential to regain his signature mobility and throwing strength.
"Cousins' injury affects his power leg, while Rodgers' was just the front leg," Morse noted.
Despite the significant challenge, Cousins remains determined to return at full strength by the end of the offseason, even if he will be forced to battle with Atlanta's first-round draft selection Michael Penix Jr. for the starting spot.
"I'm optimistic that I can be full speed at practice before we break for the summer," he asserted during his introductory press conference.
What else did Dr. Morse say?
Dr. Morse's insights also underscore the long-term challenges associated with Achilles injuries, which could significantly impact Cousins' comeback.
"The issue with Achilles reconstruction is you never get that calf back ever," Dr. Morse cautioned.
He then compared Cousins' situation to Joe Burrow's struggles with a calf strain last season.
Burrow's early-season difficulties highlighted the persistent effects of such injuries, reminding everyone that even the brightest stars are vulnerable to their impact.