FSU great Myron Rolle now NFLPA adviser on brain health, preventive care

Those who know Dr. Myron Rolle aren't surprised by the trajectory of his life.

Or his latest endeavor.

The NFL Players Association announced Monday, July 6, that Rolle, one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Florida State history, has joined the union in strategic advisory roles focused on player health, brain cognition and preventive care throughout a player's life.

Rolle, who starred as a safety for the Seminoles from 2006-08 before earning a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University, is now a pediatric neurosurgeon and nationally recognized researcher.

The union said Rolle will lend his medical expertise to several NFLPA initiatives, including the Mackey-White Health and Safety Committee, helping shape efforts to protect players during and after their NFL careers.

Rolle, 39, currently resides in Orlando, where he is a pediatric neurosurgeon at Nemours Children's Health. He graduated from FSU Medical School in 2017.

Dr. Sally Karioth, a celebrated professor in FSU's College of Nursing, fondly recalled Rolle as one of her students during FSU London in 2007. Even then, she said, he spoke passionately about his vision for the future, dreams that have since become reality as he emerged as a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, Rhodes Scholar and national leader in player health and safety.

"Myron spoke passionately about his vision of his life in the future," Karioth told the Tallahassee Democrat. "Now, 18 years later, he has not only met those goals but continues to expand his vision daily."

Karioth said Rolle's commitment to service has remained constant throughout his journey.

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"He gives back because he believes his platform as a pediatric neurosurgeon and former athlete gives him a powerful opportunity to inspire youth, improve athletic safety and advance health equity," Karitoh said.

"He’s always believed that if each of us upped our game 2 % the worldwide outcome would be stunning."

Joining the NFLPA a full circle moment for FSU's Myron Rolle

Rolle described the opportunity to join the NFLPA as a full-circle moment, noting how football shaped his life and the lives of his older brothers.

“This sport gave my family joy, discipline, and community,” Rolle said in a statement. “To return now, as a physician, researcher and former player, and contribute to the wellbeing of the men who make this game what it is, feels deeply meaningful. I am honored to support the NFLPA’s mission and help advance a future where every player’s health is protected with the highest standard of care.”

Karioth also recalled the pivotal day in Birmingham, Alabama, Nov. 22, 2008, when Rolle interviewed for the Rhodes Scholarship after months of preparation.

"I remember the ride to Birmingham as he had his final interview for the Rhodes Scholarship that we'd been prepping for for months," she said. "I took two cards, one to give him if he won and one to give him if he lost. And by some freaky moment, I forgot to pack the one for if he lost."

The oversight turned out to be unnecessary.

Rolle became just the third FSU student selected as a Rhodes Scholar, a milestone that launched a career defined by achievement, service and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

Here is FSU's 2026 football schedule

vs. New Mexico State | Aug. 29

vs. SMU* | Sept. 7

Bye

at Alabama | Sept. 19

vs. Central Arkansas | Sept. 26

vs. Virginia* | Oct. 3

at Louisville* | Oct. 9

at Miami* | Oct. 17

Bye

vs. Clemson* | Oct. 31

at Boston College* | Nov. 7

at Pittsburgh* | Nov. 13

vs. NC State* | Nov. 21

vs. Florida | Nov. 27

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU great Myron Rolle now NFLPA adviser on brain health, preventive care