Canadian offensive lineman, Dr. Duvernay-Tardif has been recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Newest artifacts to arrive at The Hall: medical scrubs & lab coat of @LaurentDTardif.
The starting OG for the @Chiefs in #SuperBowl LIV, he stepped away from his football career this season to utilize his doctorate in medicine to help fight the COVID pandemic.#ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/1wOIxiXBU1
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) November 14, 2020
Kansas City Chiefs’ right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif opted out of the 2020 NFL season to fight the ongoing health crisis. The 29-year-old graduated from McGill University Faculty of Medicine in 2018, becoming the first active player in NFL history to graduate from medical school.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame is currently displaying Duvernay-Tardif’s lab coat and medical scrubs. The gesture was done in recognition of his sacrifice, turning down the chance to win another Super Bowl to provide healthcare during this critical time.
The native of Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Que. was honoured by the gesture, tweeting his acceptance: on behalf of all frontline workers who have dedicated their lives to protect our communities.
Duvernay Tardif has appeared in 60 career NFL games, making 57 starts for the Chiefs. He was part of the team that won Super Bowl LIV last season in a 31-20 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
There are two Canadian-born players in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: fullback Bronko Nagurski from Rainy River, Ont. and defensive tackle Arnie Weinmeister from Rhein, Sask.