George Visger: 9 Brain Surgeries Changed Everything

George Visger nearly died after multiple brain surgeries, battled decades of neurological challenges, helped influence NFL concussion safety rules, and became one of the earliest advocates for brain injury awareness. In this unforgettable conversation, Paul Frase and Corey Berry sit down with the former NFL defensive tackle to discuss CTE, repeated head impacts, addiction, brain health, Dr. Bennet Omalu, and why hope still exists for those living with traumatic brain injuries. Former NFL defensive tackle George Visger has survived what few people ever could. After playing for the San Francisco 49ers, George endured a knee injury and three emergency brain surgeries within an eight-month period during his second season. Despite those injuries, he did not qualify for NFL benefits because he had only two credited seasons and was not vested. He would ultimately undergo nine brain surgeries and become an outspoken advocate for brain injury awareness. In this episode of the HeadRush Podcast, George joins Paul Frase and Corey Berry to discuss: His NFL journey with the Jets and 49ers Surviving nine brain surgeries Living with traumatic brain injury The truth about CTE and repeated head impacts How addiction can be a symptom—not the cause His work alongside Dr. Bennet Omalu Helping influence NFL concussion safety rules Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Omega-3s, red light therapy and other promising brain health strategies Why education, research and hope matter more than ever If you care about brain health, concussion recovery, veterans, athletes, first responders, or anyone affected by neurological injury, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Learn more about our sponsors: • Vielight, Inc. – Photobiomodulation devices designed to support brain health. Save with discount code HEADRUSHVL. • Patrick Risha CTE Awareness Foundation • Millennium Health Centers • Millennium Health Store • Paradise Behavioral Health – Brain Well Program • MC Wellness – Cristal Clark, MA, LPC-S • Ambio Life Sciences Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to help spread awareness about brain trauma, brain health, and hope.