“He’s Been Real Professional About It…and That’s What We Expect”: Framing of Media Coverage of the Tyrod Taylor Punctured Lung Adverse Event

In 2020, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Tyrod Taylor suffered a punctured lung as the result of an adverse event. The purpose of this study was to analyze the ways journalists presented the punctured lung adverse event and subsequent malpractice lawsuit in their news coverage. Guided by framing theory, the qualitative thematic analysis of news coverage identified that journalists used language that minimized the severity of the adverse event, presented Taylor's response as one of professionalism, and reported on the team's position to maintain the professional integrity of the team doctor who performed the procedure. Additionally, the news stories highlighted the larger issue of athlete understanding of medical risk when receiving care. These results raise questions about journalists' ability to accurately report about adverse events as well as the need for discussions of non-play‑related injuries in sports.