What happened: The safety is working through the NFL’s return-to-participation process. Full contact and game action require clearance from both the club physician and an independent neurological consultant.
Why it matters: The NFL sets no fixed timetable for completing the protocol. Ward must advance through each phase before returning to unrestricted football activity.
By the numbers: The return-to-participation protocol has five phases, ending with full football activity and clearance.
What to watch: Ward’s practice status will indicate whether he has advanced to unrestricted activity.