Justin Fields’ Week 3 Status in Doubt After Hard Hit Raises Concussion Concerns
New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields faced a troubling moment during the Week 2 matchup against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday afternoon. Late in the game, Fields was tackled and hit the ground hard, causing his head to bounce off the turf. The incident forced him to leave the field as medical personnel evaluated his condition. After a brief assessment on the sideline and within the blue medical tent, Fields was taken to the locker room for further evaluation, raising immediate concerns regarding a potential concussion.
Concussion Protocol Overview
The NFL has implemented stricter protocols surrounding concussion testing in recent seasons, aimed at prioritizing player safety. Fields exited the game while the Bills held a commanding lead in the fourth quarter, leading to uncertainty about his availability for Week 3.
A player must meet specific criteria to return from concussion protocol, primarily requiring clearance from an independent neurologist. The NFL’s concussion protocol consists of five distinct phases that players must navigate to ensure a safe return to the field.
Phases of the Concussion Protocol
1. Symptom-limited Activity
In this initial phase, players are encouraged to minimize physical activity. Rest is crucial, as any exertion could worsen their symptoms. Under the supervision of team medical staff, players may engage in limited stretching and light aerobic exercises as they begin to recover.
2. Aerobic Exercise
Once players demonstrate symptom improvement, they can progress to cardiovascular exercises and stretching. This phase also includes balance testing, monitored by the team’s medical personnel to ensure safety.
3. Football-specific Exercise
During this stage, players can participate in exercises that closely mimic football activities. They may work with the team for up to 30 minutes while gradually increasing their cardio workload.
4. Club-based Non-contact Training Drills
As players advance to the fourth stage, they can engage in throwing, catching, and running drills specific to their position. This phase allows for ramping up training intensity while also requiring neurocognitive and balance testing completion.
5. Full Football Activity and Clearance
To return to full activity, a player must obtain clearance from both the team physician and an independent neurological consultant. This final step ensures that the player is fit to participate without risking further injury.
Outlook for Fields’ Return
The timeline for Fields’ return hinges on both his recovery from the possible concussion and the subsequent evaluations he will undergo. As he navigates through the phases of the concussion protocol, the Jets are left to assess their options for the upcoming games.
Jets Upcoming Schedule
The Jets have a challenging slate of games ahead, which may be impacted by Fields’ situation:
Week 3: at Buccaneers
Week 4: at Dolphins (Monday Night Football)
Week 5: vs. Cowboys
Week 6: vs. Broncos (in London)
Week 7: vs. Panthers
As the Jets prepare for their next opponent, all eyes will be on Fields and his recovery process. The team and fans alike are hoping for a swift return to form for their quarterback, underscoring the delicate balance between safety and competitiveness in the sport.
