Indianapolis, IN (February 27, 2026) – The NFL Physicians Society (NFLPS) awarded
Dr. Asheesh Bedi, Head Team Physician for the Chicago Bears, the Arthur C. Rettig Award for Academic Excellence for his research presented at the NFLPS Scientific meeting entitled “Pharmacologic Mobilization and Chemokine-Directed Recruitment of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to the Surgically Repaired Rotator Cuff.”
The prestigious award is given annually to an NFL team physician for academic excellence in research in advancing the health and safety of players in the NFL.
“Dr. Bedi’s paper was chosen based on the novel and innovative concept of using pharmacologic treatment to mobilize stem cell populations from bone marrow,” said Dr. Scott Rodeo, Chair of the NFLPS Scientific meeting and head team physician for the New York Football Giants. “This is important work given both the tremendous potential of ‘orthobiologic’ approaches but also the pressing need for further rigorous evaluation”
“I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Asheesh Bedi, Head Team Physician for the Chicago Bears. “It is a privilege to pursue research that continues to advance the health and recovery from injury for our athletes. We are very grateful to the NFL for their continued support and strong investment in player health.”
The Arthur C. Rettig Award was established in 2013 to recognize an NFL team physician for excellence in academic research and advancing the health and safety of players in the NFL. Dr. Arthur Rettig is a highly respected orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine and disorders of the upper extremities. He had been a leading member of the Indianapolis Colts medical staff since the team arrived in Indianapolis in 1984 and had served as head team physician.
The winner of last year’s Arthur C. Rettig Award was Dr. David O. Okonkwo, the team Neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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ABOUT THE NFLPS
Founded in 1966, the NFL Physicians Society (NFLPS) is dedicated to supporting team physicians and athletic trainers while ensuring the highest standard of medical and surgical care for NFL athletes. The Society promotes collaboration and communication to advance injury prevention, diagnosis, and treatment across the League. Through shared expertise and ongoing education, NFLPS members work collectively to improve medical protocols, enhance player safety, and support the health and performance of athletes on and off the field.
