lign=left>His number was 88. He was well-known for his exploits as the premier tight end who defined a new era for the position. He hailed from Roosevelt, New York, and played for Syracuse University, the Baltimore Colts, and San Diego Chargers. He is a member of the Football Hall of Fame. He is John Mackey.

John Mackey was a bruising player in his day. "Big John" fought his way from his tight end position on the offensive line and into the passing lane more than any tight end of his time. Today, he is often led by the hand of his loving wife. He is a mere shadow of his former self: the roar of the crowd is history for this Hall of Famer as he suffers from dementia.

The question that is asked without a solid answer is whether his condition and the condition of many other former players is a result of repeated head trauma.

At the urging of Mrs. Mackey, the National Football League established the 88 Plan, a joint effort between the league and the NFL Players Association. The plan is named after John Mackey’s jersey number. Under the program, families of former players who have various forms of dementia can receive money for their care and treatment: up to $88,000 a year if the player must live in an outside facility, and up to $50,000 a year if the player is cared for at home.

Twenty former players have applied, but the league has yet to pay out any funds. The NFL has taken a position that the onset of dementia may not be connected with football.

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