You would be correct. Some years ago I read about the post-NFL life of Jim Otto who was a white, all-pro center for Oakland. Both his knees were shot, and he could barely walk without the help of a cane. In short, he was crippled.
When asked if he'd do the whole thing over again, he said enthusiastically said yes. For him, it was worth it. It wouldn't be for me, but that's up to the individual. Otto thought the football glory was worth living the rest of his life as a cripple.
Men in other, less lucrative professions suffer similar fates. I suppose eventually all dangerous professions will be banned.