nbcsports
In 2021, the NFL granted $4 million to Dr. Bryan Heiderscheit and his team at the University of Wisconsin to investigate improved methods for preventing and treating hamstring injuries. That research may now directly benefit Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.
According to Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football, the Saints arranged for Tyson to make two separate trips to the University of Wisconsin for assessments by Dr. Heiderscheit and his staff.
Hamstring problems have plagued Tyson, who was sidelined for three months with such an injury before finally appearing in his first NFL game last week. He also missed time at Arizona State last year due to a hamstring issue and did not participate in either Arizona State's Pro Day or the NFL Scouting Combine because of his hamstring.
However, the evaluations in Wisconsin provided encouraging news. Dr. Heiderscheit identified a specific weakness in Tyson's hamstring that he believes can be strengthened through a customized workout program, which Tyson has been following.
Heiderscheit has previously worked with Packers wide receiver Christian Watson, helping him recover from hamstring injuries. The results were notable: Watson has started every game this season and, in nine games, already has career-highs with 49 catches for 879 yards, while leading the NFL with an average of 17.9 yards per catch.
The Saints envision Tyson becoming a similar impact player if he can remain healthy, and Heiderscheit's treatment could be the key to ensuring Tyson stays on the field.
Key Analysis
The Saints' decision to seek out Dr. Heiderscheit underscores the severity of Tyson's hamstring issues and the team's investment in his long-term health. Heiderscheit's success with Watson provides a proven blueprint, and if Tyson can adopt the same regimen effectively, he could develop into a reliable deep threat for New Orleans. The move also highlights the NFL's broader push to leverage scientific research in injury prevention, as evidenced by the league's $4 million grant to Heiderscheit's team.
Originally reported by nbcsports.