Edgeworth Economics Releases 2012/2013 NFL Injury Analysis

(WASHINGTON) — Edgeworth Economics, a boutique economics and statistics consulting firm, has completed and released its 2012/2013 injury analysis based on data provided by the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA).

Edgeworth has been analyzing injury data, including mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) statistics, for the past three seasons, and evaluating trends in injury duration, severity, and other characteristics.  For example, Edgeworth has examined the effect of the recent rule adjustment during the kickoff on MTBIs. The rule mandates that kickoffs must be taken from the 35-yard line instead of the 30. 

“Overall, the data tells us that the kickoff rule has made a significant impact on MTBI injuries,” said Dr. Jesse David, a partner at Edgeworth Economics. “The rule has reduced the frequency of MTBI’s during kickoffs. Although players who sustain MTBIs are remaining off the field longer than in the past.”

David said that the data also shows that despite the reduction in MTBIs, severe injuries overall continue to trend upward, with injuries requiring surgery and those causing 8 or more days missed increasing. The number of MTBIs has leveled off and MTBIs sustained on kickoffs remains well below the pre-rule change level, although the average time missed for a MTBI continues to trend upward (16 days in the 2012 season).

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Edgeworth Economics LLC provides quantitative and economic consulting in the course of litigation and business to its clients, which include world-class law firms, Fortune 500 companies and government agencies.  

Editor’s note: If you would like more information about the data or to schedule an interview with Dr. Jesse David, please contact Mary Prime.