Sports
The NFL tells a senator how independent doctors will review Jalen Hurts' blood clots
Responding to Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, the league says neutral medical experts will study the Eagles QB's case and report to the NFL and the players union.
The NFL is sharing more about how it will look into Jalen Hurts' blood clots.
In response to questions from U.S. Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware, the league said independent medical experts will examine what happened to the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback. They will share their findings with both the NFL and the NFL Players Association.
Blunt Rochester wrote to commissioner Roger Goodell in October. She wanted answers about Hurts' case and the league's rules for handling blood clots.
What the league said
Jeff Miller, the NFL's executive vice president of communications, public affairs and health policy, explained the process in a statement released by the senator's office Friday.
"As outlined by the league and NFLPA's Collective Bargaining Agreement, mutually agreed-upon independent medical experts will review the matter and share their conclusions and recommendations with both parties," Miller said.
He added that the NFL has tracked clotting disorders among players every season for at least the past decade. After the review, the league and union will decide whether the case calls for new league-wide guidance.
The review has not started yet
The joint review has not officially begun. The NFL and the union are still working out the details.
Under the labor deal, the neutral doctors must turn in a written report within 60 days of being picked. Both sides must act on any fixes they recommend.
The union has not launched its own formal investigation into the Eagles' medical care. It still could under the labor agreement.
How Hurts got here
Hurts, 28, was first diagnosed with a superficial blood clot in London before the Eagles played the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5. He played in that game, flew home with the team and practiced fully the next Wednesday.
A follow-up scan that night showed the clot had moved. Doctors later found clots in both of his lungs.
He went on injured reserve Oct. 17 and is expected to miss the rest of the season. He is taking blood thinners, which keep him away from any contact, including football.
Blunt Rochester thanked the league for the update Friday. She also urged the NFL to use its platform to help teach fans about blood clots.
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