Browns' Training Flies Players to Hospital, Not Endzones!

Browns' Training Flies Players to Hospital, Not Endzones!

3 minute read
Published: 8/3/2024

Browns running back D’Onta Foreman gave everyone a scare during special teams drills, ending up in a helicopter ride after a head and neck injury at training camp, but he's expected back Thursday.

During a routine punt drill at The Greenbrier, Browns running back D'Onta Foreman sustained a head and neck injury severe enough to warrant a helicopter trip to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Though initially alarming, medical tests revealed no serious damage, and Foreman is slated to rejoin the team by Thursday—a testament to the resilience and just-a-bit-too-intense nature of pre-season football. Team prayers evidently paid off, as Foreman remains key to supporting Nick Chubb's comeback story.

The incident put a sudden halt to what was otherwise a typical training camp day at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. During special teams/punt drills, Browns running back D'Onta Foreman collided with another player, causing him to fall awkwardly. It was definitely not the type of highlight anyone was hoping for that day.

A hush fell over the field as the Browns' athletic training staff quickly attended to Foreman. Demonstrating clinical precision, they immobilized him on a backboard and stretcher—a sight that would unsettle even the most composed spectator. While it certainly wasn't the kind of excitement fans were expecting, everyone breathed a sigh of relief knowing he was in good hands.

In a move worthy of high drama, Foreman was airlifted to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. The helicopter ride added an unexpected aerial twist to his training camp experience, one usually reserved for far lesser concerns, like touchdowns.

Despite the initial alarm, the Browns' training staff managed to instill some hope. They reassured everyone that Foreman had full movement in his extremities, which was somewhat comforting in the otherwise tense atmosphere. You could almost hear a collective sigh of relief — even if it was drowned out by the sound of hearts returning to their original positions.

Further examination at the hospital brought more good news. X-rays and CT scans were negative, confirming that no significant injury had occurred. With doctors anticipating a full recovery, spirits began to lift, and some joked that Foreman would soon be dodging tackles in no time.

By Thursday afternoon, heart rates were set to normalize as Foreman is expected to return to the team, embodying the term 'quick turnaround.' For a moment, it almost made the year-to-year cycle of football injuries seem like routine maintenance.

Foreman's unforeseen medical evacuation didn't go unnoticed by his teammates and coaches. In a show of solidarity, they collectively took a knee after practice to pray for his well-being, blending camaraderie with a touch of spirituality. Despite the intense scene, one player humorously remarked about the 'collective knee workout,' adding a sprinkle of light-heartedness to the tense environment.

Foreman's role in the Browns' future takes on particular significance considering Nick Chubb's saga of overcoming a season-ending injury in 2023. Given Foreman's importance in this plan, it's no wonder that the team collectively held their breath when he went down with an injury. Maybe next time, they'll all remember to exhale, too.

If football camps are about overcoming challenges and uniting as a team, the Browns just had an advanced lesson in the subject.