Former Wisconsin and NFL linebacker Chris Borland praises doctor for saving his life

Former Wisconsin and San Francisco 49ers linebacker Chris Borland credits Ann McKee with saving his life in a piece that he wrote for Time's "The 100 Most Influential People of 2018."

McKee, who is a doctor and UW alumnus, made the annual list of influential individuals for her research on brain injuries. 

Borland states in the article, "I quit because I was worried about brain damage. Dr. McKee’s groundbreaking work on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) was central to my decision, and she may have saved my life. At the very least, her work has likely spared me much of the suffering we see today among former NFL players."

In a surprse move, Borland retired at 24 from the NFL in March 2015, specifically citing the long-term effects of head injuries.

He walked away after one season with the 49ers in which he started eight games had 107 tackles, one sack and two interceptions in 14 games.

He signed a four-year contract worth around $2.9 million with the 49ers. That contract was not guaranteed for the seasons Borland did not play, and he returned three-fourths of his $617,436 signing bonus to the 49ers.

The third-round draft pick was an All-American at Wisconsin and the Big Ten defensive player of the year as a fifth-year senior in 2013.

Borland concludes his story by saying, "Her reward for great scientific breakthroughs has often been sharp criticism. Dr. McKee has even endured personal attacks. She is reviled by the old boys’ club of a multibillion-dollar industry. Punishment for doing your job well is an unparalleled professional pressure.

"Yet Dr. McKee shows up to work every day. She shares her findings. And she tells the truth, however uncomfortable.

"That is grace under pressure. That is the quiet courage of Dr. Ann McKee."

Borland, 27, is now working with the After The Impact Fund, which treats former NFL players and military veterans who have experienced traumatic head injuries.

He has learned from his two brothers, Joe (a captain in the U.S. Army JAG Corps) and John (a major in the Army), the struggles of military members who are recovering from brain injuries and the transition back to civilian life.

Chris Borland's focus is on everything from addiction treatment to proper diet and exercise programs.

And he can thank McKee for that.