Jeff Beukeboom – Edmonton Oilers
For almost 15 years, Jeff Beukeboom dominated the ice – when he played for the Oilers, he won three Stanley Cups, and was known by everyone as a hard-hitting defenceman. When he made his move to the New York Rangers, he quickly established himself as a fan favorite and as an anchor for the defense what with his body-checks and complete willingness to protect his teammates, even if it meant fighting through. He could have gone on to achieve even greater things if he hadn’t been sucker punched the Kings, Matt Johnson, back in 1998. After the incident, Beukeboom did attempt to play again but he was constantly plagued by headaches, memory loss, nausea and confusion. Beukeboom was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome and forced into retirement.
Jeff Beukeboom – Edmonton Oilers
Chris Spielman – Cleveland Browns
For about ten years, Chris Spielman was a linebacker in the NFL who was known to not just be a talented footballer but a man who was completely devoted to his family. However in 1997, Spielman suffered a neck injury which resulted in spinal surgery. He was so determined to make a comeback that he signed with the Browns in 1999 and suffered yet another neck injury and was forced into retirement.
Chris Spielman – Cleveland Browns
