Super Agent Leigh Steinberg

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Just a few weeks ago the NFL sent memos to all 32 clubs notifying them that a league observer would be present in the press box at each stadium to help spot injuries on the field. 

Stepping it up a notch, the league is now requiring teams to place certified athletic trainers in the observation post to help monitor concussions. 

Both changes were prompted by recent injuries.

A league observer policy was instituted in late November after the Chargers’ Kris Dielman was seen staggering on the field after a hit Oct. 23. 

He continued to play and suffered a grand mal seizure on the plane ride home to San Diego a few hours later.

On Dec. 8, Browns’ quarterback Colt McCoy suffered a vicious helmet-to-facemask hit by Steelers’ linebacker James Harrison, prompting the installation of certified athletic trainers in the press box.

McCoy remained on the field for several minutes after the hit but walked to the sideline. He was not evaluated for a concussion by sideline medical staff who did not see the hit because they were attending to other players.  Reportedly, McCoy was ‘lucid and talking’ when he had his hand examined and was allowed to return to the game after missing two plays. McCoy suffered concussion symptoms after the game.  He has not been cleared to return. 

Harrison was suspended for one game without pay.

The NFL and the Players Association held meetings to discuss the Browns’ handling of McCoy’s concussion.  NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell told CBS Sports, “A player should not be going in without a neurological exam, when you see a hit like that…One of the things we want to do is make sure someone, a medical professional, has his eyes on that field at all times, and can see when an injury occurs…so that the proper medical care is being given.”

Source: NFL placing trainers in press box to help monitor concussions following Colt McCoy’s injury — The Washington Post 12/20/11

Questions/comments?  contact Jean Rickerson at jean@SportsConcussions.org