Every time an NFL player suffers a well-publicized injury, doctors from across the country rush to have their voices heard, and the extremely popular Dr. Mehmet Oz is no different.
Prior to the New York Giants’ Week 10 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday, Oz was asked about Sterling Shepard, his multiple concussions and what he might recommend for the wide receiver.
“Sterling Shepard may join other very talented athletes who retire early from their sport because of concussions,” Oz told TMZ Sports. “Professional athletes feel more pressure to perform physically, but Shepard has a long career ahead of him doing other things, but his mind has to remain intact.
“But I wouldn’t rely on whether you’ve had a concussion or not to determine if you retire. You want to actually look to see if there are cognitive changes — are you thinking differently?
“If Sterling Shepard’s brain is still functioning as a young man’s should, then I’m fine with it. If it’s not, he should be reconsidering returning to the gridiron.”
By all accounts, Shepard’s cognitive processes remain the same despite the presence of concussion-like symptoms, but there has been some pressure from his inner circle to potentially consider walking away from the game.
“Biggest advice for [Shepard] today would be start taking your omega-3 fats because we know they make your brain cells more fluid and help them become more resilient to injury,” Oz added. “More importantly, go through some of the simple and basic testing.”
Oz concluded by leaving a standing invitation for Shepard to meet with him at his New York offices.
The Giants have not placed Shepard on injured reserve, and despite the persistent issues, remain hopeful he can return to the field this season.
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