Cohen Craddock, a 13-year-old eighth-grader from Madison Middle School in West Virginia, passed away over the weekend after suffering a head injury during football practice. Despite wearing a helmet, Cohen experienced severe brain bleeding and swelling. His father, Ryan Craddock, is pushing for improved safety measures, such as Guardian Caps, to prevent similar tragedies.
Cohen’s death is part of a troubling trend, with at least six other young athletes dying in August from injuries related to football practices and games. This includes 16-year-old Caden Tellier, who also died from a head injury in Alabama.
Recent fatalities include:
- Javion Taylor, 15, who collapsed during practice in Virginia on August 5.
- Semaj Wilkins, 14, who collapsed during practice in Alabama on August 13.
- Robert James Gillon III, 15, who died at home in Florida on August 13 after reporting chest pains.
- Leslie Noble, 16, who collapsed from heatstroke during practice in Maryland on August 14.
- Ovet Gomez-Regalado, 15, who collapsed during practice in Kansas on August 14 and later died in the hospital.
