Doug Flutie's Sports Injuries
Type of Sport: American Football
Doug Flutie's Sports Injuries Table
| Type | Area | Date | Consequences | Content | How It Happened | Recovery Duration | Rehabilitation Details | Impact On Career | Psychological Impact | Previous Injuries | Return To Competition | Severity | Treatment | Medical Staff | Long Term Impact | Preventive Measures | Competition Missed | Initial Symptoms | Re Injury Risk | Support System | Rehabilitation Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concussions | Head | 1984-09-14 | Temporary loss of consciousness and confusion. | Flutie was hit hard while attempting a pass, resulting in a concussion that forced him to leave the game. | Doug Flutie sustained a concussion during a game while playing for Boston College. | 2 weeks | Complete rest and gradual return to physical activity under medical supervision. | Missed one game but returned to perform at a high level. | Increased awareness of the risks associated with head injuries. | None | 1984-09-29 | Moderate | Rest, monitoring for symptoms, and gradual return to activities. | Team physicians and neurologists. | No significant long-term effects reported. | Improved helmet technology and stricter concussion protocols. | 1 game | Dizziness, headache, and confusion. | Moderate | Family, teammates, and coaching staff. | Boston College medical facilities. |
| Knee Injuries | Left Knee | 2005-10-08 | Swelling and instability in the knee. | While attempting to evade a defender, Flutie twisted his knee awkwardly, resulting in ligament strain. | Flutie injured his left knee during a scramble play while playing for the New England Patriots. | 6 weeks | Rest, physical therapy, and use of a knee brace. | Missed several games but returned to finish the season. | Increased caution when scrambling. | None | 2005-11-20 | Moderate | Physical therapy, knee brace, and rest. | Team orthopedic specialists and physical therapists. | Occasional knee pain and need for ongoing strengthening exercises. | Knee brace and targeted strengthening exercises. | 4 games | Swelling, pain, and instability. | Moderate | Family, medical team, and teammates. | New England Patriots training facilities. |
| Shoulder Injuries | Right Shoulder | 1998-11-21 | Pain and limited range of motion. | The injury occurred when Flutie was sacked by an opposing player, landing awkwardly on his shoulder. | Flutie injured his right shoulder during a tackle while playing for the Buffalo Bills. | 4 weeks | Physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications. | Missed a few games but returned to play effectively. | Concern about future shoulder stability. | None | 1998-12-20 | Moderate | Physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. | Team doctors and physical therapists. | Occasional discomfort and need for ongoing shoulder strengthening exercises. | Strengthening exercises and protective padding. | 3 games | Sharp pain and inability to lift the arm. | Moderate | Family, medical team, and coaching staff. | Buffalo Bills training facilities. |
Doug Flutie's Sports Injuries Videos
Doug Flutie on parents' deaths: You can die from a broken heart
Former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie announced the death of his parents, who died within an hour of each other. They had been married for 56 years. Flutie shared the news on his Facebook page, revealing that his father, Dick, had been ill and died of a heart attack in the hospital. Less than an hour later, his mother, Joan, also had a sudden heart attack and passed away. Flutie expressed his belief in the idea that one can die of a broken heart.
Flutie's Miracle in Miami
Doug Flutie's "Hail Mary" pass finds Gerard Phelan for a touchdown, giving Boston College a 47-45 win over Miami. With no time left on the clock, Flutie threw the ball into the end zone, threading it between two Miami defenders.
A Football Life: Doug Flutie
Doug Flutie reflects on his career, emphasizing the impact of his famous "Hail Mary" pass, which cemented his reputation as a never-give-up player. Despite being considered too short for the NFL, Flutie proved his critics wrong with his determination and skill. He discusses his journey from being overlooked in high school to becoming a college football sensation at Boston College, where he defied expectations and earned the Heisman Trophy.
Flutie's professional career started with the USFL's New Jersey Generals before moving to the NFL, where he faced skepticism due to his height. Despite initial struggles, he found success in the CFL, winning multiple Grey Cups and MVP awards. His return to the NFL with the Buffalo Bills reignited "Flutie Mania," as he led the team to several victories and playoff appearances.
After leaving the NFL, Flutie continued to play in the CFL and later joined the San Diego Chargers, where he mentored younger players like Drew Brees. Known for his creativity and resilience, Flutie ended his career with a memorable dropkick, becoming the first player to successfully execute one since 1941.
Beyond football, Flutie enjoys an active lifestyle, playing baseball, surfing, and playing in a band. He is also dedicated to his family, particularly his son Dougie, who has autism. Flutie and his wife have raised significant funds for autism research and support through their foundation. Throughout his life, Flutie has turned perceived weaknesses into strengths, proving that determination and adaptability can overcome any obstacle.
Doug Flutie receives a call from the Bills | A Football Life | NFL Films
In 1998, Doug Flutie considered retiring, but joined the Buffalo Bills after being told he could compete for the starting quarterback position. Initially, Rob Johnson was named the starter, but Flutie got his chance when Johnson was injured. Flutie's unexpected success and dynamic play style created excitement and led the Bills to nine wins and a playoff appearance, earning him Pro Bowl and Comeback Player of the Year honors. Despite his achievements, the team chose to start Rob Johnson in a playoff game due to management's investment in him. Johnson struggled, and the Bills lost following a last-minute miracle play by the opposing team. Flutie, known for his own miraculous plays, watched helplessly as the game slipped away.
