Reports that Eagles linebacker Kiko Alonso completely cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol were premature.
Alonso returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since suffering a concussion two weeks earlier at an open practice at the Linc (see Eagles injury report). He participated in several drills, leading to reports that Alonso had passed through the league’s mandated concussion recovery protocol.
But step four of the five-step return-to-participation program, outlined by the league’s Head, Neck and Spine Committee, says concussed players can participate in non-contact football activities, such as “throwing, catching, running and other position-specific activities.”
As long as the player’s activity doesn’t involve contact with other players or football equipment, such as blocking sleds or tackling dummies, he can continue his training on the field.
If the player doesn’t have any recurring symptoms afterward and his testing returns to baseline, he can advance to the next stage.
The fifth and final step of the program involves receiving clearance from the team physician and an independent neurologist.
A source close to the situation said Alonso is expected to undergo examination by the independent neurologist Wednesday morning.
NFL
The Eagles on Wednesday start joint practices with the Ravens at the NovaCare Complex that will involve contact but not full tackling to the ground.