Every summer, preseason NFL games steal stars’ health and prevent fans from watching their favorite players suit up in the games that really matter, and every summer, the cry for changes to be made are ignored.
It’s time to make a change, NFL. 
Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey will spend at least half the season on the sideline after injuring his ankle during a 24-19 win against the Green Bay Packers. Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson won’t play at all this season after injuring his knee in the same game. And Robert Griffin III is still on the mend after suffering a concussion during Thursday’s game against the Detroit Lions. 
Those are just three of the biggest names who have suffered injuries during games that are almost as irrelevant as the Pro Bowl. There will undoubtedly be more when the last couple rounds of preseason games take place.
They say insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different result. So cut the preseason down from four games to two, or eliminate it altogether. 
Yahoo Sports’ Dan Wetzel suggested having joint practices in the teams’ stadiums in place of a few games as a possible option. 
Let’s make it happen.
These are just a few solutions from a long list. Although, admittedly, there aren’t any perfect solutions.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin tore his ACL in a non-contact situation during a joint practice with the Miami Dolphins, and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick tore his ACL and MCL during the team’s Tuesday practice, proving injuries can happen even in less-hazardous environments.
But people are clearly unhappy with the status quo, and it would be foolish for the NFL not to explore other options. Although players will still get injured during the offseason, no matter how many games there are or what type of practices are run, the numbers can be cut down by making changes.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers shouldn’t lament the loss of his top target to a season-ending injury in what he described as a “meaningless game.” 
“It’s disappointing you have injuries like this in the preseason,” Rodgers said following the game.
This isn’t just some player fighting to make a roster, this is the reigning NFL MVP speaking up.
New Orleans Saints fans shouldn’t have been forced to hold their breath as they waited for an injury update on their new cornerback Brandon Browner, who was carted off after suffering an injury in the preseason opener.
Black and gold fans shouldn’t have to worry about their star quarterback Drew Brees suffering a serious injury during the few series he appears in during the preseason.
The face of a franchise shouldn’t face the risk of missing the games that actually matter because of what can happen in the games that don’t.
So NFL, do something. Do anything.
Jack Woods is a 21-year-old mass communication senior from Ruston, Louisiana. You can reach him on Twitter
@Jack_TDR.