Browns won't face discipline for handling of McCoy concussion

The Cleveland Browns will not be disciplined by the NFL for their handling of quarterback Colt McCoy's concussion, a league spokesman confirmed to NFL.com and NFL Network on Wednesday.

The Browns came under intense scrutiny last week for how they reacted to McCoy's head injury during a Dec. 8 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, prompting representatives from the NFL and NFL Players Association to meet with team medical personnel. That led to reform in the NFL's game-day procedures on head injuries, as the league notified all 32 teams that certified athletic trainers will be stationed at games effective immediately to monitor players for possible concussions.

McCoy still hasn't shaken symptoms from the concussion sustained nearly two weeks ago and again wasn't cleared to practice Wednesday. Browns coach Pat Shurmur said McCoy was evaluated by team doctors and did "a little physical activity" as he continues to recover.

McCoy hasn't been seen at the team's training facility this week.

McCoy, who has displayed immense toughness while being roughed up all season, will miss his second consecutive game Saturday at Baltimore. Backup Seneca Wallace will start against the Ravens, although Shurmur hasn't made that announcement official.

The Browns are being extra careful in their treatment of McCoy. It was their failure to check him for a concussion on the field or sideline at Heinz Field that prompted the NFL to institute the new game-day policy, which will be paid for by the league.

The league's medical staff and the NFLPA had input into the changes following their meeting with the Browns last week to discuss McCoy's post-injury treatment. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell participatd in the talks via teleconference, as did Browns president Mike Holmgren.

McCoy wasn't tested for a concussion until after the loss to the Steelers, and he was sent back into the game after missing just two plays. The Browns said McCoy wasn't showing symptoms of a concussion, so they didn't test him. Also, team doctors were treating other players and didn't see the impact from Harrison's vicious hit, which earned the Steelers linebacker a one-game suspension that he served in Monday night's loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

Harrison returned to practice Wednesday following his one-game suspension and delivered another shot on the Browns. He believes they should be disciplined for their handling of McCoy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.