[EmpireWF]

The NY Times has a great article today on the issue of the growing problem in high school football when it comes to the weight of players; specifically linemen.

Some stats..

"A study of more than 3,600 high school linemen in Iowa, published in January in The Journal of the American Medical Association, found that 45 percent were overweight and 9 percent were classified with severe adult obesity. This compares with 18 percent of male children and adolescents who are overweight."

"In western Pennsylvania, Alexander (Doctor from the National Institute of Health) said, 15 high school players weighed at least 300 pounds in 1996; in 2005, 71 players did."

"Carl Francis, a spokesman for the NFLPA, said there was no movement to institute weight restrictions. Bob Colgate, the assistant director of the National Federation of State High School Associations, said the issue of obesity in football was being considered but that further study was needed before any recommendations could be made. One concern is whether weight restrictions would be considered discriminatory."


No doubt that this is a problem that needs to be addressed. These kids are getting themselves so big that they're at risk for heart issues before they reach their 30s.

[Lefty Noob]

What can you do, though? Institute weight limits like in wrestling, and have players weigh in before every game?

[EmpireWF]

They have to do something. Weight limits is a start. I can't believe there is no regulating body (not even the school or coaching staff) who keep check over the weights of their lineman. You have to look in the best interests of the young adults.