In October 2024, former LSU safety Greg Brooks Jr. filed a lawsuit against Louisiana State University (LSU), its medical center, and head coach Brian Kelly, alleging medical negligence related to his brain tumor diagnosis. Brooks claims that LSU coaches and trainers failed to properly diagnose his condition, leading to severe neurological injuries following surgery.
In response, Coach Kelly expressed unwavering support for Brooks, emphasizing the team’s affection for the player. He stated, “It’s well known, and we’ve talked about the love that we have, our entire team, for Greg Brooks—a leader, beloved by his teammates, and we’ll continue to have that.” Kelly acknowledged the prevalence of lawsuits in society but maintained that it does not alter the team’s feelings toward Brooks. He added, “Our support is going to be there. We hope and pray for only the best for him.”
Brooks, who transferred to LSU from Arkansas in 2022, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in September 2023 after experiencing symptoms such as dizziness and vomiting. Despite these symptoms, he continued to play in the first two games of the 2023 season. The tumor was discovered following an MRI, and Brooks underwent surgery on September 15, 2023. Post-surgery, he has faced significant health challenges, including being unable to walk or speak clearly.
The lawsuit names several individuals, including Coach Kelly, former defensive coordinator Matt House, former safeties coach Kerry Cooks, head athletic trainer Owen Stanley, and team doctors Stephen Etheridge and Vincent Shaw. It alleges that the medical staff misdiagnosed Brooks’ condition, attributing his symptoms to vertigo, and failed to refer him to a specialist in a timely manner.
LSU has responded to the lawsuit by expressing its commitment to providing exceptional medical care to its student-athletes. A university spokesperson stated, “Since the beginning of our agreement with our Championship Health Partner, Our Lady of the Lake, they have provided exceptional medical care for our student-athletes in all of our sports.”
As the legal proceedings continue, the LSU community remains focused on supporting Greg Brooks Jr. during his recovery journey.
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