Denver columnist wonders about Broncos QB Russell Wilson's future

"There is no reason to rush Wilson back to the field. Let his brain heal. Let his body heal. Let his spirit heal," writes Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post. "If Wilson doesn't play another snap during the course of the next four games... I would be OK with that." 

Risking Wilson's long-term health for a team eliminated from the playoffs for its seventh consecutive season is nonsensical and fails to consider a far greater human element. 

There's a strong link between concussions and CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy). 

According to Boston University's CTE Research Center, the condition is caused by a history of repeated hits to the head and surfaces months or years after the injuries occur. 

Boston University adds that symptoms include confusion, impulse control problems, aggression, depression, and progressive dementia. There is no cure, and it's only diagnosable after death. 

Athletes in contact sports, like Football, are at much higher risk of getting CTE. Per Axios, a study conducted by the Concussion Legacy Foundation and nine universities found these athletes are 68 times more likely to get the disease. 

Wilson is the father of three children. When his family is considered, along with the disease's effects, it paints a bigger picture.

"All that mattered was a father of three children could get up because two young boys and a girl are in need of Wilson's hugs far more," Kiszla writes.  

Although Wilson fell short of expectations this season, it's a trivial matter compared to life's grand scheme. 

Wilson shouldn't play to appease a losing franchise, frustrated fanbase, or critics. He deserves better as a player and person.