Disclaimer: This blog was AI-generated and human-reviewed by Dr. Mark Heisig to ensure accuracy and alignment with evidence-based concussion management practices. 

On a night that had the NFL world buzzing, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence took a brutal hit that left him shaken and ultimately removed from play. The play in question—a late hit with clear helmet-to-helmet contact—was widely criticized as unnecessary and avoidable. While Lawrence’s immediate removal from the game was a win for player safety, the incident highlights both the importance of proper concussion protocols and areas where the NFL still has room to improve.

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Notably, the conversation quickly shifted to Lawrence’s shoulder injury and upcoming surgery, which will officially end his season. However, we can’t let the visible severity of a physical injury overshadow the potential long-term impact of a concussion.

Here’s a look at what the NFL Concussion Protocol will involve for Lawrence, why proper management is key, and why concussions need to stay in focus—no matter what other injuries grab the headlines.


The NFL Concussion Protocol: What Happens Next?

The NFL Concussion Protocol is a well-defined process to ensure player safety and gradual recovery. Here’s what Trevor Lawrence’s path will look like:

1. Immediate Removal & Initial Assessment

After the hit, independent medical spotters and team physicians promptly assessed Lawrence for visible signs of concussion, including confusion, balance issues, or tonic posturing—a rigid, unnatural body position indicating brain trauma.

2. Locker Room Evaluation

Once removed from play, Lawrence would have undergone a thorough locker room exam, including neurological assessments, balance tests, and cognitive evaluations. The goal is to confirm a concussion diagnosis and rule out more severe brain injuries.

3. Gradual Return-to-Play Protocol

If diagnosed with a concussion, Lawrence will now progress through the NFL’s 5-Step Return-to-Play Protocol:

  • Step 1: Rest and symptom-limited activity (light tasks, no physical exertion).
  • Step 2: Light aerobic exercise.
  • Step 3: Sport-specific, non-contact drills.
  • Step 4: Non-contact practice with increased intensity.
  • Step 5: Full-contact practice followed by medical clearance.

Each step requires the player to remain symptom-free before progressing. This stepwise approach ensures adequate recovery and reduces the risk of Second Impact Syndrome. This rare but life-threatening condition occurs when a second concussion happens before the first has fully healed.


Shoulder vs. Head: The Danger of Overshadowing Concussions

Lawrence’s shoulder injury is significant. It ends his season and will require months of rehabilitation—a timeline far longer than the 3 weeks typical for concussion recovery. However, while visible injuries like ligament tears demand immediate attention, concussions often present less obvious but equally concerning risks.

Subtle concussion symptoms frequently go unnoticed yet carry long-term implications if ignored. These include:

  • Slowed reaction time
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Emotional changes such as irritability or anxiety
  • Light and sound sensitivity

By focusing primarily on Lawrence’s shoulder, we risk overlooking the importance of proper concussion care. As ESPN highlights, Lawrence’s ability to return to full health will depend on addressing all injuries—head and body alike—with equal care.


Where the NFL Still Needs to Improve

The NFL deserves credit for swiftly removing Trevor Lawrence from play, but more work must be done. Current protocols still seem to be triggered heavily by visible symptoms like tonic posturing or seizure-like activity. While these signs demand immediate action, more subtle indicators—such as disorientation, slowed reaction times, or visual disturbances—can easily be missed.

Better recognition of subtle concussion signs is essential if the league hopes to build on its recent progress. Continued improvements in sideline assessments and early intervention will make the game safer for all players.


Beyond Gear: Why Management Matters More Than Guardian Caps

The NFL has implemented Guardian Caps—over-helmet padding designed to reduce impact forces during practices. While Guardian Caps can mitigate some external forces, they are not a solution to concussions.

Why? Because concussions occur when the brain moves within the skull due to sudden acceleration or deceleration—something padding alone can’t prevent.

Real player safety comes from proper concussion management:

  • Early detection of symptoms
  • Gradual, evidence-based return-to-play protocols
  • Prioritization of neurological health over gameplay demands

In short, while protective equipment has its role, proper care and management remain the most essential tools for keeping athletes safe.


Conclusion: A Win for Player Safety, With Room for Improvement

Trevor Lawrence’s removal from play after his apparent concussion reflects progress in the NFL’s approach to head injuries. Swift action and adherence to concussion protocols protect athletes in both the short and long term.

However, the league must go further. Recognizing subtle symptoms and prioritizing brain health—even when other injuries dominate headlines—is crucial for player safety.

At Complete Concussions, we advocate for proper diagnosis, evidence-based management, and long-term recovery strategies to keep athletes healthy and performing at their best. When we prioritize player safety with the same intensity as we do gameplay, we all win.