In a recent and emotionally charged development, LSU head football coach Brian Kelly publicly addressed serious allegations made by the father of former LSU safety Greg Brooks Jr. The controversy centers around claims that Kelly and the LSU football program failed to provide adequate support to Brooks Jr. during his battle with a life-threatening brain tumor. The situation has garnered national attention, especially following an interview with Brooks Sr. on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
The Allegations
Greg Brooks Jr., a former standout safety for LSU, was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer, in September 2023. According to a lawsuit filed by the Brooks family, there was a significant delay in diagnosing the tumor, and the surgery performed led to multiple strokes, leaving Brooks Jr. with lasting impairments. The family alleges that LSU’s medical staff was negligent and that the coaching staff pressured Brooks Jr. to continue playing despite his symptoms.
In the “Good Morning America” interview, Greg Brooks Sr. expressed his frustration, stating, “My son almost lost his life. Coach, where were you? Forget about football. Pick up the phone and say you love the kid, man.”
Brian Kelly’s Response
In a press conference held on National Signing Day, Brian Kelly addressed the allegations directly. He stated, “It is factually incorrect to state that I was not there by Greg’s side through this ordeal. I was there on multiple occasions. We had somebody from my staff that was there virtually every single day.”
Kelly emphasized his commitment to his players, saying, “We love Greg. We love him for the person that he is, for the competitor that he is and the battler that he is. We can only wish him continued progress as he goes through an incredibly difficult time.”
The Lawsuit and Its Implications
The lawsuit filed by the Brooks family names LSU, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and several individuals associated with the football program. The suit alleges that there was a 39-day delay between Brooks Jr. reporting symptoms and seeing a neurologist, and that the surgery was performed by a surgeon not qualified for the procedure. The family claims that Brooks Jr. now requires ongoing therapy to relearn basic functions such as speaking, writing, and eating.
Brooks Jr.’s Perspective
Greg Brooks Jr. has spoken about his experience, expressing disbelief at the turn of events. He stated, “Honestly, I thought it was fake. Like, I was in disbelief…Like a nightmare that I couldn’t wake up from.”
He also offered advice to other athletes, saying, “If something is hurting, tell them. And, if they don’t do anything about it, go get your second opinion. If I would have known that, I wouldn’t be the way I am right now.”
