Are Fans and NFL teams too demanding of players?

[Longtimefan]

Originally Posted by TheInspector

I have a question for you all: What is classified as "risky" behavior, and what exactly is "common-sense"?

I hear a lot of people saying things like, "he is obligated to prohibit from any 'risky' behavior which may result in injury," or, "he should use common-sense."

I do think that he was senseless by riding without a helmet, but I cannot say that he was lacking
common-sense simply because his principles don't conform to mine. He could be injured horsing-around with his brother, or he could slip and fall. Does that mean he should avoid all behavior which could result in injury (like walking)? Of course not.

We should avoid making general statements like these. If he is bound by his contract to avoid riding motorcycles that is one thing--otherwise, we cannot say he is obligated to avoid risk. It would be better to say that he should avoid any risky behavior, within reason.

Ben just answered both your questions for you in his first public statement after being released from the hospital. It was perhaps what many wanted to hear, and he is taking full responsibility for his behavior and vows not to make the same mistake again. Even he now understands what risky behavior and common sense is, join the parade.