With the 2018 NFL Draft fast approaching players from the past comment on their health today. Former Super Bowl MVP Mark Rypien said he has attempted suicide, hired prostitutes and suffers from persistent depression. Now, he’s wondering if he sustained brain injuries while playing football. “My story is impactful because people see me in a different light. I want them to see me in an accurate light,” Rypien said. “I’ve been down the darkest path. I’ve made some horrible, horrible mistakes. But I’ve given myself a chance to progress forward.” Rypien, who led the Redskins to victory in the 1992 Super Bowl over Buffalo and was picked as the MVP, said he played organized football for 26 years and figures he suffered several concussions. “People think you have to be knocked out to have a concussion,” Rypien said. “There are hundreds of times you shake it off and get back in there. It’s all about the cumulative hits. That’s what cause brain damage.” Rypien said he suffers from depression, anxiety and isolation. Outwardly social, “I can’t wait to get home and be alone,” he said. (USAtoday.com)
