Maurice Jones-Drew: Controversial Comments on NFL Concussion Policy Are Dead On

There is no question that concussions are a hot-button issue in the NFL right now. While some may believe that the league is trying to better protect its players, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew seems to think it has something to do with lawsuits, and I happen to agree.

Just last week a group of players, led by former Miami Dolphins Patrick Surtain and Oronde Gadsden, sued the NFL for "severe and permanent brain damage" caused by concussions. This has been a common occurrence of late, and Jones-Drew doesn't think it's any coincidence that the league is now taking a firm stance on concussions, according to the Associated Press.

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I've had concussions before, and it wasn't this big deal about concussions, Jones-Drew said. The only reason they're making a big deal about concussions right now is because the league is getting sued over it. Before this, you never heard about it. A couple of years ago, you didn't hear anything about it.

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While MJD may be a bit too nonchalant about head injuries, he makes a solid point. I think it's fair to say that the effects of concussions have become common knowledge over the past five years or so, but only now is the NFL truly starting to buckle down with regards to head shots and the like.

Now independent athletic trainers will be on site at games to look out for signs of concussions. This is yet another instance in which the NFL is trying to save itself from future lawsuits. While the current steps the league is taking will help protect players, it is merely a residual effect.

The league and commissioner Roger Goodell understand that it's good business to keep the players safe. That is not only so marquee stars can remain on the field, but it will also prevent future backlash like what the NFL is experiencing with Surtain, Gadsden and co.

Jones-Drew also called head injuries an "occupational hazard" in his interview with the AP. Again, MJD's point is well taken. Football players have to know that there is the possibility that they will be injured every time they step onto the field. That risk is balanced by the reward of sky-high salaries, though.

Again, there is nothing wrong with protecting the players, but I think it is irresponsible of players like Surtain and Gadsden to sue the league when they knew full well that injuries could happen. They simply saw the recent increased safety measures as an opportunity to cash in.

Jones-Drew may be old school in his thinking, but I think he is pretty much on the money. While I do think the league needs to pay special attention to concussions, this wouldn't be as big of an issue as it is if former players weren't looking for a big pay day.