Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is a tough player. He's played with a nose so broken it appeared to hang crookedly off of his face. He's played while recovering from a painful foot injury. He's stayed in games after heavy hits. On Sunday, however, Roethlisberger suffered a hit so jarring that he ended up removing himself from the game. It was also so jarring that, according to Jeremy Fowler's report on ESPN Wednesday afternoon, his face mask was bent during the collision.
There have been conflicting reports about whether or not Roethlisberger actually suffered a concussion, but he was going through the NFL's concussion protocol. Today, however, he was well enough to participate in practice. According to Jeremy Fowler, he was a full participant, engaging in all the activities he would normally do when he is healthy. Landry Jones reportedly took reps with the second team.
With news of Roethlisberger's return to practice, it is all but definite that he will be able to start in Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. After the disappointing loss to the Seahawks, Ben's presence on the field will provide some comfort and sense of much-needed continuity and consistency after a slew of injuries rocked the team earlier in the season.
Concussions have been a hot issue once again this season. The upcoming movie Concussion should spark even more conversation and scrutiny about the way the NFL handles head injuries and their aftermath. On Sunday, Roethlisberger had the wherewithal to remove himself from the game, but other players, such as Case Keenum of the Rams, have continued to play while exhibiting signs of concussion, even with independent medical experts serving as spotters during the game.
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