From potential NFL prospect to a fight for recovery, former LSU football captain Greg Brooks Jr.'s life has taken a dramatic turn. A year and a half after leading the Tigers, Brooks is now navigating the challenges of being wheelchair-bound and facing speech difficulties following a medical crisis that began in September 2023.

Brooks initially reported dizziness and vomiting during practice, which the team attributed to vertigo. However, his symptoms persisted for over a month before a brain tumor diagnosis led to emergency surgery. Tragically, Brooks suffered multiple strokes during the procedure, necessitating a difficult journey to regain basic functions like eating, walking, and writing.

Image: Greg Brooks Jr. during the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in 2023. (David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Brooks' father, Greg Sr., expressed disbelief and anguish over the situation, questioning LSU's handling of his son's health. He revealed a lack of communication from the university, particularly head coach Brian Kelly, since the initial diagnosis. "My son almost lost his life, Coach. Where were you?" Greg Sr. poignantly asked in a recent interview.

The Brooks family filed a lawsuit against LSU in August 2024 alleging negligence. The suit claims the university failed to properly address Brooks Jr.'s symptoms, pressured him to continue playing despite his illness, and employed unqualified doctors for his surgery. It also alleges that promised funds from a donation drive established by LSU were never transferred. Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, where the surgery took place, is also named in the suit. The hospital has previously stated it cannot comment on specific cases due to privacy laws and pending litigation, but emphasized the experience of its neurosurgical team.

Image: Greg Brooks Jr. celebrating an interception during the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. (Russell Lansford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The lawsuit paints a grim picture of Brooks Jr.'s future, stating he will likely require lifelong care and will be unable to play football or work independently. LSU issued a statement last October offering thoughts and prayers for Brooks during his rehabilitation, but has not responded to recent requests for comment.

Image: Greg Brooks Jr. intercepts the ball during the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. (Russell Lansford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Brooks Jr.'s promising football career, which included a transfer from the University of Arkansas and a career-high 66 tackles in 2022, has been tragically cut short. What would have likely been his NFL rookie season is now overshadowed by a fight for his health and a legal battle seeking accountability.