As the NFL Scouting Combine takes place this week, NJ.com reported that draft prospects will be medically examined by physicians from each football team. HSS sports medicine surgeon and Head Team Physician for the NY Giants Scott A. Rodeo, MD, discussed the significance of the medical evaluation process.

"I think it's an important factor. We have a meeting with the general manager, head coach, player personnel people and scouts prior to the draft where we review the medical history on each player," he said.

During the orthopedic exam, Rodeo explained that he evaluates each athlete's joints for stability, motion and strength.

"As you can imagine, it's sort of a job interview so, frankly, the player is not incentivized to tell you about his injuries. But we get the information. It's kind of out there, largely. But that's why you do need to carefully examine the player. If there's any concerns based on your examination, we can go get imaging studies as needed. It's a comprehensive dive," Dr. Rodeo added.

Once the exam is complete, each prospect is given a grade.

"We try to grade each player based on objective criteria, share that with the team and then ultimately it's stratifying risk," he said.

Read the full article at nj.com