League probes McCoy’s handling of concussion

Findings could lead to changes in policies governing head injuries.

Don Wright/AP photo The NFLPA could file a grievance on Colt McCoy's behalf if it's determined the Browns did not test him properly for a concussion.

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By Tom Withers, Associated Press 11:34 PM Tuesday, December 13, 2011

CLEVELAND — An investigation by the NFL and Players Association into the Browns’ handling of Colt McCoy’s concussion could lead to changes in the league’s medical procedures and protocol on head injuries.

McCoy sustained a concussion when he was hit last week by Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison, who was suspended for one game for the helmet-to-helmet hit, his fifth illegal one on a quarterback in the past three seasons.

League and NFLPA representatives met with the Browns on Tuesday to discuss McCoy’s injury, which may have exposed some previously unaddressed issues tied to the concussion policies.

In an email, league spokesman Greg Aiello said the purpose of the meeting “is to examine procedures and identify areas for further discussion with other medical experts, Commissioner Goodell and the union.”

Aiello said any changes in policy or procedure would be made by Goodell and in conjunction with the league’s medical committee and the union.

NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith acknowledged the union is taking part in the review.

The Browns said McCoy, whose head snapped back after he was struck on the facemask, did not show symptoms of a concussion until after the game. Coach Pat Shurmur claims the team followed medical protocol before the second-year quarterback was allowed to return just minutes after absorbing the vicious hit.

Shurmur is hopeful McCoy will be able to play at Arizona this Sunday. Backup Seneca Wallace will make his first start of the season if McCoy is ruled out. Wallace came in for two plays after McCoy was briefly knocked out of the game by Harrison.

The Browns have come under intense scrutiny for the way they dealt with McCoy’s injury.

The quarterback’s father, Brad McCoy, criticized the team for allowing his son to return to the game. The elder McCoy went as far as to question whether the Browns’ medical staff was capable of identifying a concussion.

The NFLPA could file a grievance on McCoy’s behalf if it’s determined the Browns did not test him properly for a concussion. The league could also take action against the club.

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