NFL changes concussion language

The NFL will distribute a new poster to teams that warns of the dangers from concussions in much harsher language than the league had previously used.

Traumatic brain injury "may lead to problems with memory and communication, personality changes, as well as depression and the early onset of dementia," the document reads. "Concussions and conditions resulting from repeated brain injury can change your life and your family's life forever."

The acknowledgment of such risks is a significant change from a pamphlet previously distributed to players, starting in 2007. That pamphlet said: "Current research with professional athletes has not shown that having more than one or two concussions leads to permanent problems if each injury is managed properly."

Elsewhere — Pittsburgh expects to go through most or all of training camp without knowing the exact date when quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's suspension will end. ... New England has placed wide receiver Wes Welker (knee) on the active/physically unable to perform list, and also signed second-round pick Brandon Spikes. ... Cleveland signed defensive back T.J. Ward, a second-round pick, to a multiyear contract. ... Philadelphia signed safety Nate Allen, its second-round draft pick, to a four-year contract. ... Baltimore second-round draft pick Terrence Cody failed his conditioning test and was not permitted to participate in the team's first training camp practice. ... Indianapolis signed fifth-round draft pick Brody Eldridge. ... Tennessee agreed to terms on a multiyear contract with rookie safety Robert Johnson.

Associated Press