This assumption is a bit askew.
While all pain signals are transmitted via nerves, most are microscopic sensory fibers. If there is no involvement of motor nerves, then there is no compromise of function, except for the obvious apprehension one has in causing pain. The large motor nerve roots that exit the spine are the predominant source of surgical intervention. A disc rupture may not necessarily cause entrapment of one of these nerve roots, and if it does it still may be relieved if the fragment of disc material is dislodged from its position of compression, possibly just through PT or even just range of motion exercises. If entrapment is present and is not corrected, the nerve will slowly degenerate, and motor function will gradually and permanently be lost. Therefore, those surgeries are necessary to preserve normal function.
Only about 1% of all back pain that we routinely see is surgical. Even in the simplest of cases (like Tony's) where a small fibrous fragment can simply be plucked from its site of entrapment using a scope, the body can overzealously create excess scar tissue at the site, and lead to a less than optimal outcome. Mechanical lumbar pain and sciatica are common non-surgical issues than can certainly limit one's activities, but must be managed conservatively. Transient impingement (pressure) on smaller nerves will surely cause pain and debility, but this can usually be overcome by proper rehab and maintenance.
BTW, a bulging disc is usually totally asymptomatic; about 10% of normal folks have one.
So, Tyron's situation (like most others) should require rest and rehab; I'm sure he and the team will do what's best for the short and long term.
He may retire within a year, or he may play for another 7; football is uncertain, like life.