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Flashback #95: Dave Duerson's Suicide (2011)

As of 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these "flashbacks" have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary page.

February 17, 2011 - Dave Duerson's Suicide

The suicide of former Bears safety Dave Duerson provided an unsettling look at the brain of an NFL player.

Duerson took his life on Feb. 17, 2011 when he shot himself in the chest in his Florida home. Reports indicate Duerson sent a text message to loved ones asking that his brain be left for NFL research.

After months of studying Duerson's brain, experts at Boston University learned that he had developed the same trauma-induced disease recently found in more than 20 deceased players.

A report from the New York Times said about 24 retired NFL players have been found to have the disease known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The 50-year-old Duerson complained to family of his deteriorating mental state during his final months.

Duerson was selected in the third round of the 1983 draft. He went on to become a key member of Bears world championship defense in 1985 and appeared in four straight Pro Bowls from 1985-88. He won another Super Bowl with the New York Giants in 1990 before retiring after an 11-year career.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary »

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