New concussion cautions unveiled
The NFL and the players’ union announced a series of changes Friday to the way potential concussions are handled during games, following an ugly incident in which Texans QB Tom Savage was allowed to return to the field after a hit left him on the ground, arms shaking.
A joint review by the NFL and the NFL Players Association was prompted by the Savage injury against the 49ers on Dec. 10.
He was taken to the medical tent, where he stayed for less than three minutes before returning to the bench and going back in for the next series. He was then evaluated again and taken to the locker room after it was determined that he did have a concussion.
Among the changes detailed by the NFL and NFLPA (all of them already implemented): Using a centralized, unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant at the league office to monitor feeds of all games and contact the team medical staff on the sidelines if they see anything that deserves further evaluation. If players show signs of a seizure or so-called “fencing responses,” as Savage did, they will be removed and cannot return.
Jets re-up coach, GM
The Jets extended the contracts of GM Mike Maccagnan and coach Todd Bowles through 2020.
The extensions are for two years each, according to a person with direct knowledge of the contracts.
New York is 5-10 and will miss the playoffs for the seventh straight year and the third under Maccagnan and Bowles.
Around the league
• The Titans will play their all-important regular-season finale against the Jaguars without running back DeMarco Murray, ruled out because of a sprained right knee. Tennessee (8-7) can make the playoffs with a win.
• Jags WR Allen Hurns is expected to play after missing the last six games with a high-ankle sprain.
• Dolphins left tackle Laremy Tunsil (ankle) is doubtful against Buffalo.
• Houston WR DeAndre Hopkins (calf) will sit vs. the Colts, missing his first career game after appearing in 79 straight.