NFLPA wants independent specialists to check concussions

Michael Vick was one of three quarterbacks who suffered concussions on Sunday. The NFLPA is calling for independent doctors to assess hits to the head due to inconsistent adherence to concussion policy. (Elsa/Getty Images)

The NFL Players Association has asked the league to hire concussion specialists with no team affiliation to evaluate and treat players, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen:

NFLPA sources said the union wants the league to accept responsibility for creating a disciplined, prompt and safe environment for players who are injured during the course of a game. They said the union wants concussion specialists, paid not by the teams but by the league, to assume the duties of caring for players, in accordance with normal employer workplace oversight.

Several high-profile players suffered concussions on Sunday including quarterbacks Michael Vick, Jay Cutler and Alex Smith and running back Fred Jackson. Of the quarterbacks, only Vick was quickly taken out of the game; Cutler and Smith continued playing despite being shaken up before they were eventually taken out, according to NBC Sports.