The NFL’s concussion protocol is a robust safeguard to help protect players from the long-term effects of head trauma. Through its five-step return process, independent oversight and mandatory monitoring, the league strives to ensure athlete health comes before schedule and competition.

If judged to be concussed, the player should be supervised for 24 hours and begin a six-stage 'return to play' process. This starts with an initial 48-hour period of rest with minimal physical and 'cognitive' activities, such as working and using screens.

New national clinical guidelines for the treatment of concussion have been released. They are aimed at helping healthcare professionals treat patients with greater consistency, amid concern that providing the right care can still be a blind spot.

It's become more common in recent years to see NFL players wearing Guardian Caps on the field. Here's how they work.

As you age, your risk of this type of brain injury goes up. That’s why it’s important to know the signs and the best ways to protect your body and mind.