Anquan Boldin and the Arizona Cardinals: Stay Together for the Kids?

(Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)

As Anquan Boldin's seemingly lifeless body lay in the New York Jets' end zone on week four last year I wasn't the only one who thought, "That man is dead."

After being sandwiched by two lunging Jets defensive backs, Boldin's head hit the ground hard and his body went limp. He was knocked out and had to be carted off on a stretcher.

Jets fans everywhere were chanting, "He got, JACKED UP!" emulating the ESPN segment touting the biggest hits of the week and season.

Cardinals fans didn't immediately recognize the seriousness of the situation. Boldin takes hits, that's his MO. He's usually the guy initiating the contact and undoubtedly the toughest receiver in football.

So when it was revealed Boldin would have to undergo structural face surgery and receive metal plates, the severity of his injury was evident. 

Surprisingly the only person who considered retirement after this incident was Kurt Warner. He felt responsible for the play. In Warner's eyes he never should have thrown the ball into double coverage.

That play really drives home how dangerous the NFL can be. Most QB's don't want to throw into double coverage because it could result in an interception. This play shows throwing into double coverage is also risky for the health of your teammates.

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