GREEN BAY, Wis., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley will undergo spinal fusion surgery to treat a career-threatening neck injury, his agent said Wednesday.
Blake Baratz told ProFootballTalk.com in a statement Finley will undergo an operation performed by Pittsburgh Steelers team neurosurgeon Dr. Joseph Maroon.
Finley was injured on a shot to the head by Cleveland safety Tashaun Gipson in an Oct. 20 game and has since been on the injured reserve list.
Baratz issued the statement after former Packers tight end Mark Chmura told a Milwaukee radio station he believed the 26-year-old Finley would need surgery and that his career is likely over.
The agent said after "countless hours over the past few weeks meeting with the top spine specialists, neurologists, and neurosurgeons throughout the country," a decision had been reached for Finley to undergo spinal fusion.
"First and foremost, Jermichael's long-term health is our primary concern. While his return to professional football is a hot topic of conversation, his ability to live a long and fulfilling life with his loved ones is by far and away our main objective."
Finley had made 25 catches for 300 yards with three touchdowns through the first six games of this season before getting hurt.
