Checking out the 12th Man's reaction on social media to losing free agent players is providing an interesting look at human psychology.

We've all become familiar with the Five Stages of Grief and Loss were first proposed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book “On Death and Dying.” The stages are denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. It's been interesting to see the reaction of Seahawks' fans to the loss of popular free agent wide receiver Golden Tate to the Detroit Lions. I've determined that these fans have their own stages of grief and loss in this situation.

  • The Emotional Floodgate: "He's such a neat guy! What are we going to do without him? Can't the team just pay him more money to keep him forever?"
  • The Angry Outburst: " What a piece of (expletive of your choice)! He sold us out! I hope we kill him when we play him this year! We'll make him pay!"
  • The Logical Response: This response explains the business of the National Football League at length, and why a player might not re-sign with his team.
  • The Who Cares: "He's not that good any way. We can find a dozen players that can do his job for much less money. No big deal!"
  • The Optimism Express: In John Schneider and Pete Carroll we trust! The team will reload! Have faith in the system!"

I personally lean toward the last one. It's the least stressful stage, but not all that entertaining!

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