#player-health-and-safety

#player-health-and-safety

Not long ago, most NFL players - linemen, certainly - couldn't up and quit at the peak of their earning potential because their earnings weren't enough to ensure a lifetime of financial stability. Instead, they did what football players do - button their chin strap and play as long as their name remained on a roster. The risk of serious injury - including concussions - was simply the price of staying in the business.

SANTA CLARA The globe-trotting 49ers will make NFL history next season by playing international games on two different continents, including hosting a game in Mexico City, the NFL announced Wednesday morning. Compounding the 49ers' worldwide travel itinerary is a season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in the league's Australian debut in Melbourne. The multi-continent international scenario does not sit well with several 49ers, who also will play games from coast to coast in the United States.