In a shocking turn of events, the LSU Tigers‘ starting safety, Greg Brooks, found himself in the midst of a daunting battle off the football field. Just last week, Brooks received a devastating diagnosis of a brain tumor, which prompted an urgent surgical procedure last Friday to remove the mass.
The Brooks family released a statement on Wednesday to provide an update on Greg’s condition, which was later confirmed by LSU officials. This revelation shed light on the circumstances surrounding his absence from the Tigers’ recent victory over Mississippi State, an absence that was initially described by Coach Brian Kelly as a “medical emergency.“
Coach Kelly, showing immense respect for the Brooks family’s privacy, refrained from divulging specific details about the situation, leaving fans and the football community in suspense. As of now, there is no definite timeline for Greg Brooks’ return to the football field.
According to the family’s statement, the surgery to remove the “large brain tumor” was a success, and they are currently awaiting the results of a biopsy. The family expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support from the medical professionals attending to Greg and the outpouring of love and concern from the Louisiana, Arkansas, and national sports communities during this challenging time.
“We are grateful for the work and care of the medical staff helping Greg through these challenges and for the concern and love poured out by so many in the Louisiana, Arkansas and national sports communities,” the Brooks family conveyed. “This means the world to us at this difficult time. Greg continues to fight, and we await further clarity on the extent of that battle.“
During Wednesday’s SEC teleconference, Coach Kelly shared that Greg Brooks had experienced bouts of vertigo earlier this year, which eventually led to the discovery of the tumor. The decision to perform an MRI came after Brooks felt dizziness once again this past Wednesday, revealing the tumor’s presence.
When questioned about the possibility of Brooks returning to the football field this season, Coach Kelly admitted that he did not possess such knowledge. However, he highlighted Brooks’ indomitable spirit, emphasizing that when he spoke with the fifth-year senior before the surgery, Brooks was resolute about making a return this season.
“He was pretty clear about playing again this year,” Coach Kelly remarked. “But that’s Greg Brooks.”
Greg Brooks, a Louisiana native who attended West Jefferson High School, made a significant impact since transferring to LSU prior to last season. He started all 14 games in 2022 and proved to be an essential component of the Tigers’ defense, ranking fifth on the team in tackles with a total of 66.
As Brooks faces this unexpected adversity, the entire LSU family, along with the wider football community, stands united in offering their unwavering support and well-wishes for his recovery. His courageous journey ahead serves as a testament to the resilience and determination that extend beyond the gridiron.
