Particle.news
Download on the App Store

BucsJalen McMillan Says Neck Injury Nearly Left Him Paralyzed

The second-year wideout publicly detailed three fractured vertebrae, months in a neck brace, then a cautious clearance before making two catches in his return.

Overview

  • Speaking for the first time since the August preseason injury, McMillan said his doctor warned he “almost got paralyzed.”
  • ESPN reported the injury involved three fractured vertebrae sustained when he fell on the back of his head during a preseason game in Pittsburgh that was initially called a severe neck sprain.
  • McMillan wore a neck brace day and night for about three and a half months and said he battled early depression before focusing on daily routines and “small wins.”
  • He was cleared to practice on Dec. 3 and activated from injured reserve on Dec. 10 under the NFL’s return-to-play process.
  • In his first game back last week, he recorded two receptions for 38 yards, drawing praise from teammate Sterling Shepard for returning without hesitation.