[Bette]

Researchers say the repetitive moments of blocking and tackling plus the weight of helmets and pads can take off nearly 1/2 inch in height off players.
The defensive high impact actions compresses the spinal cord.

Playing Football Makes You Shorter, Study Shows Blocking And Tackling May Temporarily Reduce Player's Height - CBS News

[Lefty Noob]

No surprise. Anytime you repeatedly compress the spine like they do, it's bound to happen. It's the price for playing the game.

[Bette]

Originally Posted by Lefty Noob

No surprise. Anytime you repeatedly compress the spine like they do, it's bound to happen. It's the price for playing the game.

If I would have thought about it I wouldnt have been surprised. But it sounds wierd when you say playing football makes you shorter.