NFL will institute standardized concussion tests

INDIANAPOLIS - The NFL will recommend team doctors and trainers use a standardized sideline test to diagnose concussions next season.

The announcement is scheduled for Friday morning at the league's annual scouting combine.

Dr. Margot Putukian, chairwoman of the NFL's subcommittee on return-to-play issues, told The Associated Press the new guidelines will instruct teams to ask the same questions on baseline tests. They also want doctors and trainers to use balance tests for the first time.

But the new policy will not be mandated by league officials, Putukian says.

League officials have put more attention on protecting players from head injuries since instituting more stringent concussion policies the last two seasons.