New concussion protocol adopted

The NFL and its players association have announced a new policy regarding game-day concussion protocol and discipline for clubs that violate the procedure.

Under the new policy jointly announced Monday, the NFL and NFLPA “will follow a strict and fair process to investigate incidents and determine appropriate discipline, including club fines and possible forfeiture of draft picks.”

The league and the players union will each designate a representative to monitor the implementation of the protocol and investigate potential violations. The probe won’t reach medical conclusions; it will only determine if the protocol was followed. An arbitrator will handle cases where the league and union disagree and report to the commissioner.

Commissioner Roger Goodell retains sole discretion in determining penalties for violations of the game-day concussion protocol.

Josh Gordon, the Browns’ talented but troubled wide receiver, has been reinstated on a conditional basis.

Gordon has been banned since February 2015 for multiple violations of the league’s drug policies. He will be suspended for the first four games of the 2016-17.

Receiver Greg Jennings is retiring after a decade in the NFL. The 32-year-old Jennings finishes his career with 571 catches for 8,291 yards and 64 touchdowns. He spent last season with the Dolphins, making just 19 catches for 208 yards and a score, playing in all 16 games.

Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell says he was doing his “homework” on Greg Hardy when he brought in the polarizing defensive end for a two-day workout and interview last week.

Caldwell said he has “no imminent plans” to sign Hardy, a free agent who spent last season in Dallas.

Darnell Dockett signed a one-day contract with the Cardinals and announced his retirement.

A defensive lineman, Dockett played 10 seasons with Arizona. A three-time Pro Bowl selection, he finished his career with 40 ½ sacks.