http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/fbn_obit_hunter_kelly

Does anyone think it odd that there were quite a few NFL QBs in the mid 90's whose sons had some serious health issues? Jeff Hostetler's son had something around four open-heart surgeries before he turned one, Doug Flutie's son has autism, and I remember there being more.

All kidding aside, I wonder if there was something "in the water" so to speak, a supplement or a meal plan or something that could have led to these coincidental things happening all at the same time.

32 teams with 55 players... 1760 per year over what, a ten year period (Hostetler to Kelly)? If that's only 3400 players in a decade and there are twice as many incidences as you mention (4) then the incidence you remember is roughly one tenth of one percent, or LESS than what might be expected in the general population if I remember that particular type of epidemiological study correctly.

Hostetler and Kelley played as opponents in the 1991 Super Bowl. Both retired five years later.

I agree the incidents are still in a low occurance, but it is an interesting coincidence. And Flutie, though past his prime, was Kelley's heir when he retired.

That's interesting, I didn't remember that they played together. I know Kelly was with the Gamblers when Flutie was in high school.

I'd expect the incidence to be lower then the general population because athletes are usually in better physical condiditon with the exception of some offensive and defensive linemen that have to stay at high weights to be competitive.

Also, QBs rarely use steriods.. it doesn't really help their game and can harm their speed and flexibility. Amphetimines, maybe.