Next step: NFL takes deeper look into concussions of possible draft picks at combine

NFL combine puts more emphasis on concussions

INDIANAPOLIS — NFL draft hopefuls are undergoing more thorough exams for head injuries at this week’s annual scouting combine.

All 329 invited players will be given a baseline brain activity exam — called the ImPACT test — and will likely face more grilling than previous classes did about their concussion histories. Those implementing the changes call it smart football.

In past years, it was up to individual teams to conduct such tests.

By examining everyone at the combine, the league will have a more standardized way of evaluating players and potentially collecting data about repeated hits to the head. It’s another step toward making the game safer as awareness increases about the long-term dangers of concussions.