Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton Says Football is Now 'More Dangerous than Ever'

NFL Current State & Challenges - The NFL faces a landscape where the difference between teams is minimal, with quarterback health being a significant factor affecting team performance [1][2] - Increased injuries, especially among quarterbacks, are a major concern, contrasting with past eras where players like Roger Staubach and John Unitas rarely missed games [3] - Rule changes intended to protect players, particularly quarterbacks, have altered the game, but injuries remain a critical issue [24][25] - The game is considered more dangerous now due to the increased size and impact of players, leading to more concussions and long-term health issues [28][29] Quarterback Evolution & Value - Quarterbacks today need to be mobile and able to run, a contrast to earlier eras where scrambling was less common [22] - Modern NFL quarterbacks are highly valued, potentially earning $40 million/year for 10 years, creating generational wealth [6] - Patrick Mahomes is highlighted as an example of a mobile quarterback who has reached another level of play [22] College Football Transformation - College football faces challenges with the name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules and the transfer portal, leading to significant changes in player dynamics [13] - College players are now being paid substantial amounts, with some Georgia Bulldogs earning $3 million to $5 million/year [13] Business & Technology - Technology has greatly improved business opportunities, making it easier to achieve more [18] - Fran Tarkenton is involved with Pip IQ, an AI-driven technology strategy for small and medium-sized businesses, aiming to provide affordable solutions [8][16] - Tarkenton emphasizes that the mission of business is to help people, particularly small business entrepreneurs [17] Tarkenton's Career & Perspective - Fran Tarkenton's initial NFL salary was $12,500, which increased to $180,000 at his peak, a stark contrast to modern salaries [7] - Tarkenton has started 24 companies and remains active in business, driven by a desire to help others [16][17]