Return-to-Sport Rate for NFL Tight Ends after ACL/MCL Tears

Abstract

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), located on the inside of the knee joint and connects the shin to the thigh,  and the Medial Collateral Tears (MCL), located on the inner side of the knee and allows sideways motion,  are prevalent injuries in the NFL, posing significant challenges to athletes.  Tight ends are especially susceptible to ACL and MCL tears, given the demands of their position, potentially jeopardizing their longevity in the NFL and the quality of their careers.  This study investigates the impact of ACL or MCL tear recovery on career length and performance for NFL tight ends.  Data was used from 2010 to 2022.  T-test results indicate no significant drop in performance for tight ends who suffer an ACL or MCL tear and return to play.  Additionally, we did not observe any significant change in career length between players who have sustained an ACL or MCL tear and those who have not.