Pittsburgh, PA (My Sportsbook) - Eagles running back Brian Westbrook visited with two concussion specialists Wednesday in Pittsburgh to assess the status of his playing career going forward.
Westbrook was evaluated by Dr. Joseph Maroon and Dr. Michael (Micky) Collins at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
The versatile back suffered a second concussion in a four-week span during Sunday's loss to San Diego. He was held out by the team for two games after his initial concussion, sustained October 26 against Washington. He returned to the field on Sunday, but left the contest early in the second half.
The UPMC doctors report that Westbrook's symptoms have improved significantly over the last three days. The Villanova product was re-tested Wednesday with a battery of neuro-cognitive tests, including ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), a computerized tool that is used by all NFL teams for evaluating injury recovery. He also underwent a comprehensive physical and neurological exam, results of which were favorable.
"We are very encouraged by Brian's progress, we believe that he has an excellent prognosis and we expect a full recovery," reported Drs. Maroon and Collins. "We developed a comprehensive physical rehab plan for Brian, and we will repeat the detailed testing in the next two to three weeks."
"We commend the Eagles athletic training and medical staff for their diligent and conservative care in this particular case as well as their historical excellence in managing these types of injuries," added Dr. Mark Lovell, the concussion program director at UPMC.
The oft-injured Westbrook, who also missed a game earlier this season due to an ankle sprain, has just 225 yards and one touchdown on the ground this season, while adding 19 receptions for 156 yards and another score.
Eagles head coach Andy Reid discussed Monday the fact that Westbrook's season may be over, having taken every precaution before allowing him to return to the field the first time around. With the nature of the injury, Westbrook's career could also be in jeopardy.
