Kansas City Chiefs Should Not Play After Jovan Belcher Suicide

Romeo Crennel, hours after witnessing starting linebacker Jovan Belcher commit suicide, said the Kansas City Chiefs will play their game with the Carolina Panthers as scheduled.  As difficult as it would be to hear the tragic news of a player’s death, watching the suicide in person is certainly enough to make the Chiefs’ coach unfit for Sunday’s game.  The NFL and the Chiefs got this one wrong by not rescheduling the game between two playoff-eliminated squads.

Hours before the game, the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs watched one of his players take his own life.

How is this game possibly taking place as scheduled?  I understand the financial implications of cancelling or moving an NFL football game, but the decision to play Sunday’s game as scheduled is brutally inconsiderate – even if Romeo Crennel wants to move forward.

The team is likely shaken by the sudden and disturbing news surrounding the death of their starting linebacker as well.  Belcher had been with the Chiefs for four years after signing as an undrafted free agent.  It seems unfathomable that even after a player suicide on stadium grounds that the Chiefs are expected to be ready to play on Sunday.

Belcher reportedly took the life of his girlfriend, mother of his infant child, before driving to the stadium and committing suicide.  After thanking Romeo Crennel and GM Scott Pioli, Belcher shot himself.  Javon Belcher was described as an effort player, that never overwhelmed with raw skill.  His ascension to the NFL was a motivating story for many, but his demise certainly tarnishes that legacy.