In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, LSU coach Brian Kelly stood firm against accusations aired on national television suggesting he lacked concern for Greg Brooks Jr.’s well-being following the abrupt end of his football career due to emergency brain surgery. “You can scrutinize my coaching on the field. You can question our tactics. But when it comes to matters off the field—whether as a parent, a husband, or a dedicated member of every community I’ve been a part of—this is where I draw the line,” Kelly emphasized during a press conference initially planned to address transfer players.
Referring to remarks made by Brooks’ father on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” Kelly expressed how deeply the comments affected him. “That statement really struck a chord with me. It hit me on a personal level,” Kelly confessed. Brooks Sr. had demanded answers, saying, “Coach, my son was fighting for his life. Where were you? Forget about football. Just pick up the phone and show some care for the kid, man.”
The situation escalated as Brooks initiated legal action against LSU, alleging negligence in promptly addressing his symptoms and permitting unqualified medical personnel to conduct the surgery in September 2023, following his medulloblastoma diagnosis. The lawsuit revealed the severe consequences Brooks faced, including multiple strokes during surgery, the need to relearn basic functions like eating and writing, ongoing speech difficulties, and an inability to walk.
According to the legal filing, Brooks initially displayed symptoms during preseason training, such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Allegations also surfaced that LSU coaches pressured Brooks to continue playing in the team’s initial games, warning him of losing his starting position if he chose to sit out. More than a month later, after enduring persistent symptoms, LSU eventually referred Brooks to a neurologist who identified the tumor.
Kelly vehemently refuted the claims of neglect, asserting, “It is factually inaccurate to suggest I was absent during Greg’s struggle. I visited him on numerous occasions, and my staff ensured constant support virtually every day.” Expressing genuine affection for Brooks, Kelly acknowledged, “We hold Greg in high regard for the person, the competitor, the fighter that he is. We can only hope for his continuous improvement during this challenging phase. However, it was crucial for me to set the record straight regarding my care and affection for Greg.”
For more college football news, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
