It was just over a year ago that Trent Green’s career with the Chiefs effectively ended when he was knocked out of a game against the Bengals by defensive end Robert Geathers with a severe concussion. Though he returned to action late in the season, Green clearly wasn’t himself.

Given that he missed eight regular-season games — a far longer stretch that your average concussion — Green appeared to be one big concussion from endangering his health. Then Sunday happened.

After attempting to block Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson on a busted play, Johnson belted the right side of Green’s helmet with his knee, and the 37-year-old QB lay motionless on the field for 10 minutes.
It’s not ridiculous to assume that Green’s career might be over. The doctors will have the predominant say, naturally, but don’t be surprised if another phone call has a big influence.

Chiefs GM Carl Peterson, the man who traded for Green in 2001, became extremely close with him and struggled to trade him this offseason, almost certainly will call on Green. The tricky part for Peterson, who remains close with his former QB, falls in what he says to Green. By league rules, suggesting that Green retire might be construed as tampering. But as a friend and as someone who dearly wants to protect his friend, it will be tough for Peterson not to recommend that Green retire if this latest concussion proves to be another bad one.

There are too many former players who took one too many hits during their career and wish they could turn back the clocks. Green has had an outstanding career, but his time might be up.