re: Coworkers taking extended time off for an injury

The guy is probably going to be on painkillers for around 4 weeks and it could be longer. There is liability for someone on painkillers performing job duties. It is highly inconvenient for coworkers, but it is going to suck massively for him. Luckily, he has the leave. Six weeks is about the standard recovery time to return to work. Some go back sooner, but every recovery is different. Have some sympathy... he’s going to be in pain for months and have quite a few medical bills. This should not affect his career unless he is getting drafted next season.