You know, I read that piece to, and there is a lot of truth to what he says. But, I still keep coming back to that last couple paragraphs the most.
That may not be so true in days past, but it's certainly true now. Many of these guys are paid VERY WELL, and they know exactly what the risks are. They may minimize them in their minds, but it's hard to ignore they are there. If they make that decision for them and thier families, that is not something I'm prepared to own with them (in the form of guilt).
As humans we have always loved blood sports, from the gladiator days on down to now........ as we will in the future. May not be one of our finer traits, but in the words of the immortal........ "it is what it is". I feel bad for the players of old, and I hate reading the tragic tails of woe as much as anybody, but I'll be up Sunday watching and cheering like I always am......
..... and I'd be lying if I told you I'd feel the least bit guilty about it. Not proud of it mind you..... Just telling it like it is.