Green Bay Packers cornerback Robert Rochell has initiated legal proceedings against three individuals, including the alleged driver, following a car accident in February 2023 that he claims significantly impacted his professional football career.
According to the lawsuit filed in Los Angeles County, Rochell was driving his Mercedes GT 63 AMG on the Hollywood Freeway when a speeding vehicle collided with his car, resulting in injuries such as a fractured elbow, knee and head trauma, and nerve damage.
The lawsuit alleges that the accident not only caused physical pain but also hindered his football career. Rochell was forced to miss key off-season training and parts of training camp, which led to his release by the Rams after week 1. He struggled to find a permanent role, later bouncing between the practice squads of the Seahawks, Panthers, and Packers.
Rochell is seeking compensation for lost wages and “loss of earning capacity,” though the exact amount has not been disclosed.
This legal action underscores the profound impact that personal injuries can have on professional athletes’ careers, highlighting the challenges they face in maintaining their performance and securing their positions within their teams.