Erik Kramer’s Struggles and Resilience
From 2015 onward, former NFL quarterback Erik Kramer faced a harrowing five-year battle that included unsuccessful suicide attempts and the loss of a significant portion of his life savings due to a woman he secretly married. As he fought to recover, Kramer describes himself as an “extremely lucky man” and acknowledges the exceptional nature of his mental and physical healing, shared in an essay published with The Guardian.
A New Podcast Unveiling His Journey
A new documentary podcast titled The Quarterback and the Con Artist delves into Kramer’s experience with Courtney Baird and raises critical questions about the mental and physical toll on American football players, especially following a tragic incident involving another player related to CTE.
The Impact of CTE
The ten-episode series discusses neurological research connecting football to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). At one point, the podcast host, Johnathan Walton, asks Kramer’s son, Dillon, about his thoughts on CTE’s role in his father’s issues, to which Dillon expresses his belief that CTE significantly contributed to Kramer’s struggles.
Kramer’s NFL Career and Personal Tragedies
Kramer, who played quarterback for teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears from 1991 to 1999, is recognized for notable achievements, such as teaming up with Barry Sanders for the Lions’ only playoff win spanning decades. However, his success was overshadowed by ongoing depression, which deepened following the tragic death of his son in 2011 and the losses of his parents shortly thereafter.
A Dangerous Turn
In a moment of despair, Kramer attempted suicide but miraculously survived, managing to cover his subsequent medical bills thanks to his NFL earnings. This traumatic experience left him with significant cognitive impairment, making it difficult for him to process complex thoughts. During this vulnerable time, Baird reentered his life, initially portraying herself as a supportive caregiver.
Revelations and Legal Battles
What began as borrowing for groceries escalated into Baird exploiting Kramer financially, accumulating thousands in daily withdrawals under false pretenses. Following suspicions from a childhood friend, legal action against Baird was initiated, which was further complicated by her quick marriage to Kramer. This move limited efforts to prosecute her for years.
Recovery and Advocacy
After ultimately divorcing Baird and enduring a prolonged legal struggle, Kramer made it his mission to share his experiences regarding mental health and the signs of depression. He views his survival as a testament to his fighting spirit, inspiring others despite the challenges he has faced. The podcast, The Quarterback and the Con Artist, is available on major platforms, inviting others into his story.
