Photo: Getty Images
U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) is demanding answers from the NFL about its handling of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts’ blood clot diagnosis, drawing on her personal experience of losing her husband to the condition
In a letter dated Wednesday (October 21), Blunt Rochester asked NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to explain the league’s protocols for detecting, preventing and treating blood clots and how players are cleared to compete when a clot is suspected or diagnosed.
“I write to better understand the circumstances that led to Mr. Hurts’ outcome, as unique risk factors may predispose football players to blood clots,” she wrote.
Blunt Rochester also asked whether the NFL would conduct a thorough review of the Eagles’ handling of Hurts’ condition, including who cleared him to play and travel after reports that he stayed awake overnight as a precaution.
The issue is personal for the senator. Her husband, Charles Rochester, died at 52 after blood clots traveled to his heart and lungs following an Achilles tendon injury he sustained while playing pickup basketball.
“This is deeply personal to me,” she wrote. “The grief and pain that followed his passing were almost unbearable, and I would not wish it on anybody.”
On Thursday (October 22), Blunt Rochester shared her personal loss in a post on X, noting that the previous day would have been her 20th wedding anniversary.
“I lost my husband, Charles, to blood clots. Yesterday would have been our 20th wedding anniversary,” she wrote. “I know how serious they can be — America should know too.”
She added that the NFL “owes Eagles fans, and the American people, an explanation for the decisions that put” Hurts “in harm’s way.”
Blunt Rochester also asked the league to explain what measures it takes to reduce blood clot risks associated with long-distance travel and what education it provides players, trainers and coaches about the condition.
“The NFL’s influence and reach offer a vital opportunity to turn this tragedy into a force for preventing lost lives both in sports and outside of it,” she wrote, offering to support the league in improving its protocols.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.