Thursday's health and safety news from the world of football:
- Former NFL linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, a gay rights activist, wrote for Fox Sports that NFL prospect Michael Sam, who admitted Sunday he was gay, will become known as a pioneer like Rosa Parks and Jackie Robinson.
Also, Reuters reported that President Barack Obama praised Sam for having the courage to announce he was gay.
- that Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III donated $100,000 in football equipment to the schools in his hometown of Copperas Cove.
- Hall of Fame wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff talked to football players at his high school alma mater about safety concerns in playing the game, according to WICU-TV in Erie, Pa.
- The Associated Press reported that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith will deliver the graduation speech this spring at his alma mater, the University of Utah.
- American Forces Press Service announced the Veterans Brain Injury Center released care guidance standards for concussions.
- A Cape Cod Times reporter wrote that he is turning to NFL Flag Football after his 9-year-old son suffered a concussion playing tackle football.
- The Southeast Missourian reported on a concussion seminar that featured a former Kansas City Chiefs physician.
- The Cape Cod Times reported on a concussion seminar in Cape Cod.
- The Minnesota Daily looked at a study that said overuse of helmets can increase the risk of concussions.
-- Bill Bradley, contributing editor