AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2008 > February > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USPollack at peace despite uncertain path ahead
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Schultz
Given the uncertain odds of his future in football, there seemed a certain symmetry to David Pollack’s escape plans this past week. He spent a few days with pals in Las Vegas.
“It was OK, but it’s not really a place I would frequently visit,” he said by phone Saturday, after touching down in Cincinnati. “We just kind of hung out in the casinos and walked down the strip.”
Did he gamble?
“Not much. I’m a firm believer in not paying for the chandeliers in the casino.”
He is 25 now. In many ways, however, he’s the same goofy kid who came out of Shiloh High School in Snellville, went to Georgia and turned into an unexpected icon. He’ll crack on you one minute, and then turn serious when talking about faith or family.
He laughed when I suggested he should just forget about football and come back to run for mayor of Athens, and then said, “It’s amazing. I’ve never watched presidential debates before, but I’m turning into my dad more every day. I’m sitting there, watching debates and CNN steadily, and thinking, ‘What’s happening to me?’ I’m like, ‘Dude, quick, turn on SportsCenter.’ This growing up thing is weird.”
To watch Pollack play football at Georgia was like seeing a kid run into a toy store. To know his situation now is the mother of all reality checks. Life and sport took unexpected turns 17 months ago when, on his second play of the second game in his second NFL season with Cincinnati, he suffered a fractured vertebra in his neck during a tackle. He was taken off the field from a stretcher, and that was his last time between the sidelines.
Surgery and extensive rehabilitation have followed. Pollack is back doing extensive workouts, playing racquetball, running sprints, seven to nine hours a day. “I’m like Rocky in Russia,” he said. “I’m getting Rocky hard. Sometimes I even box a little, and we play the Rocky theme music.”
In the movies, maybe Pollack comes back, goes to Pro Bowls and lead the Bengals to a championship. He knows real life doesn’t always work that way.
Friday was supposed to be decision day. But a meeting with a Los Angeles spine specialist was canceled because of the doctor’s scheduling conflict. Pollack — who went ahead with the Las Vegas portion of his week — hopes to meet with the specialist in the next few weeks.
He needs to know, either way. There can’t be any gray area. He said a doctor must tell him he can play football again “and not be at a greater risk” for a spinal injury. Otherwise, he is done.
“Even if I can’t play football again, I feel blessed that I’ve been able to play a kids’ game this long,” he said. “The experiences along the way have made me a better person, a stronger person. You learn a lot about life and who really cares about you when things like this happen.”
He hears it all. Some want to see him back on the field. Others tell him to walk away. He understands both sides.
Full disclosure: Last year, I wrote a column telling Pollack that resuming his career wasn’t work the risk. I don’t have a medical degree. But I know what this game does to even strong and healthy men who haven’t had a broken neck. I know he can have his pick of next careers: broadcasting, training, coaching. I know he wants to have a family. (“I want a lot of babies with my beautiful wife,” he reiterated Saturday.)
“My wife and mom and dad and brother, they would never give me their opinion,” Pollack said. “They wouldn’t want me to be persuaded by them. I have some friends who talk to me about football and get excited about me playing again. Then I have some who don’t ever want me to step on a football field again. Some fans say they can’t wait for me to come back. Some say, ‘It’s OK, we still love you.’ I take everything as a compliment.”
Deeply spiritual, he says he prays daily, not to play football again, but for direction and strength.
He was pulling into his driveway in Cincinnati as we finished speaking. Earlier, after dialing his cell phone, I was sent to on-hold music: Ray Charles singing, “Georgia on My Mind.”
He had always planned to return here after football. If that comes sooner than expected, so be it.
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By South GA Fan
February 9, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
My heart goes out to David and his family. My daughter was a student at UGA at the same time he was there, and our family began to follow the Dawgs, naturally. We admire David and am so encouraged that he is taking the advice of his doctor, whatever that might be. More athletes should do just that and become heroes because they did what was right for their own good and for those who love them.
By Don Stout
February 9, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
David you are truly an inspirational person that appears to have his priorities in the proper order. I pray that God will give you wisdom and discernment to make the proper decision. There most assuredly IS life after football. God bless you and your family.
By kendall
February 9, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
David Pollack touched lives far beyond the football field. I know that means a lot to him. Maybe one day we can see him back on the sideline in Athens coaching up the newest Dawgs. Whatever his fate, he will be the best at whatever comes his way.
By stown
February 9, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Great article about a great guy. I’d love to see him come back but it’s just not worth the risk. Be grateful for everything god has given you and go into brodcasting or something else football related.
By Jack Tatum
February 9, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Stupid jock. If he tries to play football again, he needs to display some Daryl Stingley and Roy Campanella memorabilia in his locker.
By Dave
February 9, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
David Pollack is one of the greatest people to be associated with Georgia football. He could have a great career in the NFL, but if he has to hang up his helmet, I hopes that he comes back to Athens and joins the Bulldog coaching staff. His energy and enthusiasm would be a blessing to the Bulldogs. David, rest assured that Bulldog Nation stands behind you whatever you do.
By Matt from Athens
February 9, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
I can speak for all Bulldog fans when I say that we want David to succeed and dominate the NFL like he did the SEC, but if that can’t happen there will always be a place in Athens for the most popular Dawg of the 21st Century.
By Dawgcrzy
February 9, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
Greatest defensive player to come out of UGA.Class act,another example of the new DAWGS.God bless you whatever you decide,your already a hero.
By David Pollack Fan
February 9, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
David, you are an amazing guy with character never seen in a young man your age. I know God will bless you in whatever you do, whether it be football or coaching. I will be praying for you and your family.
By Back up Jack
February 9, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Take a chill pill Jack. David Pollock is anything but a stupid jock. I don’t know what makes you miserable that you have to come on here and insult an individual the caliber of David Pollock but I hope you come to terms with it. You are a little man with big issues…deal with them and move on. David, good luck to you whatever life holds for your future.
By NASCARfan
February 9, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
Pollack, come back to Athens. I know Coach Richt and Coach Martinez have a place for you on the staff. When one door closes, another opens. Maybe your path in life is not to play football until your knees and feet ache with every step, but to become a great football coach who helps create young men of character.
As a fan who loved watching you play, I’d love to see you stalking the sidelines at Sanford Stadium and maybe, in about 20 years, take over for Coach Richt.
By DawgLover
February 10, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
Pollack is such an amazing guy to meet, on and of the field. He loves God more than anything and because of that God will reward him. I don’t know if he’ll ever play again on the field, but I do know God has BIG plans for him. He is one of the most stand out, high class guys you’ll ever meet. David, I wish you the best in your future endeavors.
By Al Goldstein
February 10, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
I loved David as a DOG! Rooted for him as a Bengal Although I live in Florida and I normally root for the Jags and I am still one of the last Falcon fans standing. But I think David with or with out football has a great future BUT he has to stop watching CNN and get into the real World
Best of luck we are all pulling for you.
By Al Goldstein
February 10, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
I loved David as a DOG! Rooted for him as a Bengal Although I live in Florida and I normally root for the Jags and I am still one of the last Falcon fans standing. But I think David with or with out football has a great future BUT he has to stop watching CNN and get into the real World
Best of luck we are all pulling for you.
By dig003
February 10, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this
Pollack seems like a nice, hard working kid. If he’s smart, he would leverage his name recognition into either a defensive coaching position at UGA or some sort of investment project in suburban Atlanta (apparently he co-owns a contracting company or something?).
He needs to take advantage of his image amongst delusional Bulldog fans — especially the ones who like the wholesome, clean cut, bible-thumping persona people have created for him. Pollack needs to do this sooner rather than later before people start forgetting about him. I wish Pollack the best in the future and encourage him to capitalize on his fame before it’s too late, even if it means leaving football behind…
By Chris
February 10, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
May God be with you and your family while you decide to return to football or other avenues in life David. You are a great example to our young people! Go Noles!
By FLA DAWG
February 10, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this
David is a Class Act all the way. I wish him all the best in whatever he decides to do. I know ALL DAWG FANS would like to see him come home to Athens.
By Mike Hucklebee
February 10, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
I believe in miracles David, not wacky science doctors or funny math switch to kicker and go with god
By Old Testament Jew God
February 10, 2008 5:25 AM | Link to this
An angry God smite this man’s neck in his prime do not play again, pray for New Testament Christian God to show mercy and allow George Bush’s policies to kill more innocent Iraqis also whatever u do don’t let queers get married it would ruin the sanctity of marriage stupidity
By A jewish dawg
February 10, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this
TO: Old Testament Jew God—-You are one sick individual and need the comfort of a room with 4 padded walls.You obviously forgot to rant about Blacks,Republicans, etc. or was it time for your shock treatments to begin again? Crawl back under your rock and leave the blogging to those of us with IQs over 80!!
By Smyrna Jacket
February 10, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this
Obviuosly not a Dawg fan, but have to say that David was one of those Dawgs that was fun to watch play. I had the treat of watching him play in the GFL youth league. He always had FUN playing the game, no matter the level. I wish him well. As long as he relies on the answer that comes from his heart, he will be fine. And I dread the day that he shows up in Athens as a coach. There is no doubt he will be able to motivate kids to play and enjoy the game the way he has. More trouble for the Jackets. God bless.
By Woody
February 10, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this
David will be fine. He is relying on God for his direction and by doing that you can not go wrong.
By hop
February 10, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this
the greatest dawg of all time. there has NEVER dawg with more class than david.
there is far more to life than football, don’t take any chances with your health and well-being. life is too short to do otherwise.
david is a very talented person; who has so many avenues to pursue after football, the lord will show you the way.
By chip jones
February 10, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
David Pollack should come back to Mark Richt’s staff. He is our next Erk Russell in waiting. I could see him taking over the head coaching job after doing DC for 15 years or so. Wouldn’t it be great for Georgia admin. to get a redo on the Erk fiasco: losing him to Ga So? Erk should have been made the coach-in-waiting when Vince started thinking retirement, and everyone knows it now. Getting David now would be, uhhhh, “a blessing.”
By NathanCox
February 10, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
Why hasnt his jersey been retired??? 3 time all-american, numerous awards won, outstanding student athlete….it pain me ever year to see somebody else wearing #47 for the Dawgs.
By jp
February 10, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
As a medical student, i wouldn’t want him to come back knowing how serious spinal cord damage can be. But I guess if his doctor say’s its ok than i’d be ok with it. But the fact is I never even met the guy but I care about him just based upon everything I read about the guy. Superior class act, second to none in my book.
By FalconFan
February 10, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
Just think its too much of a risk.
Get on with your life and be happy.
You had the football years.
Concentrate on the healthy happy years to come. Playing with your kids should be a #1 goal.
Good luck and God Bless.
By Kathleen
February 10, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
I watched Davey at Shiloh where he and my daughter were classmates. We even have a couple of his Shiloh jerseys given to her to wear at school events. He was amazing then and made this die hard Tech fan a Dog fan for four years. He is the real deal. With the determination and drive he has, life is sure to work out for him his way.
By ssidawg
February 10, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
I would love to see Pollack coaching future generations of Bulldawgs in Athens. What a great addition to the coaching staff. Go Dawgs!
By Paddy
February 10, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Great article about a great person. If you could only get more players and people like DP into the program at UGA, the sky is the limit. CMR has it all together and you can see his teams are a reflection of his persona. These Dogs are going to be fun to watch and read about over the years to come. My guess we will see more DP’s in the near future at UGA.
By clay
February 10, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
David Pollack has already proven his football worth. He is and always will be a Bulldog icon! Couldn’t we all see him becoming the defensive coordinator of the Georgia Bulldogs someday in a very Erk Russell-like mold? No doubt whatever Davy wants to do he’ll be successful. He’s way too driven and hyper not to succeed and I am sure God has great plans for him.
By TROTTINGHOMETUDD
February 10, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
keep taking those writing classes jeff.
you keep putting this out i may not call you schultzie anymore.
Don’t disappoint.
By Steve
February 10, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
“To watch Pollack play football at Georgia was like seeing a kid run into a toy store. “
Could not have said it better.
By gaDog/GsuEagle/hal
February 10, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
David, you have to do what is best for you and your family. i doubt any doctor will tell you it is ok to play again. you would be a great leader/coach with your knowledge of the game and your spiritial beliefs. if there is the chance you can play that is great, but i don’t look for it and god bless you and your family for the best in the future.
By Phil
February 10, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Defensive Backs coach UGA
By Some Guy
February 10, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Hey “stupid blogger” (Jack Tatum),
Roy Campanella was injured in a autombile accident. Do your homework before you pop off.
Personally, I think Pollack should hang ‘em up (cleats, not car keys).
Do you have Roy Campanellla memorabilia in your car?
By ed miller
February 10, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
david is a breath of fresh air just as mike huckabee in politics we just need more like them!
By Bob Sacamano
February 10, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
dig003, you’re an idiot. That is all.
By Pro Sylitizer
February 10, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
God. What does God care about a man playing sports when children are being raped and murdered in Kenya??? Wives are beaten in their own homes and some family lost a loved one last night do to a drunk driver. Get your priorities straight. You are all projecting and practicing hero worship
By GeneralFans
February 10, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
I watched Davey play GFL for many years. He always said he would play football. He was a great kid and is a outstanding adult. We love you in Shilohland Davey. When you have time and babies you know where to the bring if they want to play.
By jacket fan
February 10, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
I am a jacket fan. I watch a hard working player give his all. He need to follow the doctor’s advise. He sounds like a person that you can follow,he will be a great leader. I wish a clean bill of health,and take his gift to the next level.I watched sportcenter to see what plays he made,that was hard to say a great football player Good luck Mr.Pollack.
By Aj
February 10, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Hey, Pro Sylitizer God cares about evryone that believes in him, even the People who play football.
By N.C. Dawg
February 10, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
My favorite UGA player of all time, without a doubt. Hope he is able to play again ,but if not he will be ok. Would love to seem him in coaching.
By Steve
February 10, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
TO: Pro Sylitizer—GOD does care, however, HE gave us a free will and that’s what makes us all different. Don’t blame GOD for what man does. David may well be a hero to kids, however, to me he is someone I’d like to call BROTHER !!!Perhaps you’d better move closer to the equator so you can get used to the heat. It gets hot in hell!!
By Rick in Dayton, Ohio
February 10, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
David — Nobody would love to see you play football again more than myself — However, maybe the Lord has already given you direction — direction to be a champion at something else in life with the ability to walk and accomplish it — Not only, in some other endeavor but the ability in everyday life to be able to run and play with your children or just as simple as drive a car — How much can David Pollack accomplish as healthy as the Lord let you be today? Go Dawgs!
By Dawgmeister
February 10, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
David Pollack was perhaps the best defensive player at UGA. I want to wish him and his family good luck for the future.
By Dawgmeister
February 10, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
David Pollack was perhaps the best defensive player at UGA. I want to wish him and his family good luck for the future.
By ginger
February 10, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
David we love you!! No matter what happens, your always OUR top DAWG!!
and for the freaks… WOW seems to be a need for some classes in anger management, theology and just plain stupidity around here!! Jeez go beat your psycho drum elsewhere freaks!!
g
By ed miller
February 10, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
hey only trying to point out good things not practicing hero worship it is far easier to put down than to lift up if we had more good examples being lifted up and less brittanys being so in the news maybe we could have more workers for the world for positive change!
By Tired of idiots!
February 10, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
To Jack Tatum: Why should DP give up football? Its something thats been with him all his life and is what has helped turned him into the man he is today? If someone told you to stop being an idiot, like you’ve been all your life, would you be able to hang it up?
By Trey Saxon
February 10, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
David , you were my son’s favorite player ( your brother David Green also) He has your picture of you sacking Carolina’s QB and intercepting the ball on his wall. Through your commitment to God , you have swayed alot of young people to lord.That said We wish you only the best in anything you decide to do with your life. God Bless You
By Richard
February 10, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
man good article I love reading about David Pollack he is a true hero to all! He is such a stand up guy I got to meet him in 05’ when he came into Longhorns when I served there. I wish him the best I loved every min. watching him play for my beloved dawgs. I wish I could see him play again but if not its ok. Who are we to want him to play just for our pleasure when he could hurt himself for life again. I don’t think its worth the risk. David Pollack you have been awesome I wish you the best in whatever you do!
By maridawgette
February 10, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Come on home, Davey. The Bulldog Nation loves and supports you.
By Pollack = NFL Flunkie
February 10, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Just like his butt buddy David Greene.
By LizDawg
February 10, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Pollack’s motor NEVER stopped running. Did you realize he played Pee Wee football with David Greene?
Go Dawgs!
By grace70coach
February 10, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Another Gem By J. Schultz: Thank You For Revealing Some of The Finer Aspects Of Football === The BEST Game Known To Mankind!….
As A former gridiron player that reached two different campaigns —- At The Division One (South Carolina) & NCAA D-II Level (Valdosta State) — strictly as A Walk-On, I Know That These Eyes (and the rest of Me) Experienced the Level of Talent displayed by Davey Pollack.
Personally dealing with the likes of All-Americans like Jessie Tuggle & Andrew Provence (both went on to the Falcons) left a lifelong impression…
Since then: I had the pleasure of watching Pollack in person at Shiloh (as a high school scout & Coach) followed by the former Generals graduation to All-Southeastern Conference and “All World” Defensive End At Sanford Stadium When He Made the MOST Incredible Sack/Forced Fumble/Interception IN The Endzone To Crush The Will And My Gamecocks 14-9 Before My Very Eyes….
A Few Years Later I had the pleasure of Shaking MISTER Pollack’s Hand At A High School state championship —- Parkview vs. Brookwood…
I feel very blessed to have met D. Pollack in MANY Different Lights: May the Song Remain The Same — That His Down-To-Earth Christian Values Follow Such A Credit To Gwinnett County Football Wherever God May Take Him….
This Has Been A #70 Production
By Larry Flynt
February 10, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Old testament God is angry he smite me and David don’t care he smite innnocent women and children f*** free will God is a angry rascist mofo ie…Katrina, Vick, slavery, tsunami, Simpson girls and he killed Kennedy
By Buck Stupendous
February 10, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Pollack and Hucklebee are the same person…don’t believe in math, science, evolution, God made David in 7 days ignore doctors who could reseach dure with abortion waste pray david pray your neck ain’t broke just don’t lean on proevolution god deniers to wipe your a* when u an invalid praise jesus the mexican not the fairy tale
By FloridaDawg
February 10, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
We need a coach on our staff like David Pollack. After seeing him getting EVERYONE fired up on the sidelines and in the crowd, he would be one hell of a coach. Surely Richt needs another assistant coach?
By Dawgbyte
February 10, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I would love to talk dawgs football and personalities with some (most) of you, but I can’t stomach anymore of these immature, ignorant, unwashed nutcases. I’m done and gone.
By BullDawg Rick
February 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Davey.. You are a great role model for kids & adults alike.. Whatever place your heart & soul takes you I am a fan of yours!! Like the article said, you are the same goofy kid that came out of Shiloh.. You are now a man!! I remember you hanging by the Rivercliff pool and being a great role model for the youngsters then..
May God Bless you & your family in whatever role He has for you!!!
By sUGAr dawg
February 10, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
The “two David’s” at UGA!! What priceless fun it was for this DAWGS fan! I pray for God to lead you in the right direction, wherever that may be, David P. Know that you are still loved in GA! Come back anytime.
By Buck Stupendous
February 10, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Bulldawg Rick I hope Sonny Perdue bans u from the pools this summer
By GOD
February 10, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Cry me a river
By gregodawg
February 10, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Jacket fan and others … good posts- some things are bigger than football. Classy sportsmanship rules.
By majordawg
February 10, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
I don’t know how well David Pollack knows the Xs and Os of football, but in terms of motivation, there could be no better successor to Erk Russell.
I’m sure if he’s cleared to play he’ll give it his all. But if he ended up in the Georgia locker room before a big game and motivation was the tipping point, David could push the DAWGS over the top in an instant!
By McBuzz4ever
February 10, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Class act and representative for UGA and people of faith. Although a Tech fan, I always admired him and was one who thought he could make an impact in the NFL. Wish him the very best no matter what. People with his outlook and dedication will always succeed. My only regret is he wasn’t a Yellow Jacket. Best wishes David!
By UGAtoBrooklyn
February 10, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
This is the reason that I’m a proud citizen of the Bulldog Nation. It was an honor to cheer for David Pollack in school, and I cried the day he was injured with the Bengals. No matter his decision, he is a true class act and a credit to his state, his school, his team, and his sport. God bless him and his family as they go through this. We’re still cheering for you, David!