More concussions being self-reported in 2017
NEW YORK — The NFL’s chief medical officer says more than a third of concussion evaluations so far this season are a result of players indicating they have symptoms, a much higher percentage than last season.
Allen Sills said in a conference call with reporters Tuesday that “about 37 percent” of the 379 concussion evaluations during the preseason and regular season have been “initiated by a self-report.” Sills said it was about 20 to 22 percent a year ago.
He called that increase “a positive development.”
Sills also said the rules for checking for a concussion were followed properly for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett on Sunday, when he was allowed to return to a game after a hit to the head. After the game, it was determined he did have concussion symptoms.
Sills says it is impossible to “capture 100 percent of concussions.”
NFL spokesman Joe Lockhart said on the call that the league and the players’ union are still reviewing whether the Seattle Seahawks properly followed concussion protocols with quarterback Russell Wilson on Thursday night.
Sills also said data from the last five years shows that the injury rate per game “is actually lower” for Thursdays than games played on other days of the week.
DMB plans show
MINNEAPOLIS — The Dave Matthews Band will perform in St. Paul on the eve of the Super Bowl, adding to a growing list of entertainment leading up to the big game.
The Dave Matthews Band will play at Xcel Energy Center on Feb. 3 as part of the so-called Night Before concert, the Star Tribune reports. Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday and will range from $67 to $127 — not inflated Super Bowl prices.
Collins on IR
CLEVELAND — Browns linebacker Jamie Collins has been placed on injured reserve after suffering a season-ending knee injury.
Collins tore the MCL in his right knee while returning an interception.
Samuel done
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina rookie wide receiver Curtis Samuel is done for the year. The Panthers announced Tuedsay that he will undergo season-ending surgery on his left ankle and will be placed on injured reserve.
That means Carolina (7-3) will be looking for a new starting wide receiver heading into the bye week.