Roger Goodell: 'We welcome' NFLPA call for investigation into Jalen Hurts' blood clots

NEW YORK — After the NFL Players Association called for an investigation into the handling of Jalen Hurts' blood clots , commissioner Roger Goodell said Wednesday "we welcome that."

"That's fine," Goodell said. "Our chief medical officers have been through the protocols that were followed. So we welcome that. That's what they did, they have that right."

Hurts was diagnosed Oct. 10 with a superficial blood clot on his calf and then played the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Oct. 11. In the days that followed last week, doctors found the blood clot had moved not only into the deep veins of his calf but also into both of his lungs.

The Eagles placed him on injured reserve as he undergoes treatment with blood thinners.

Questions swirled regarding the safety of Hurts playing and traveling on a seven-plus hour transatlantic flight with the clots. NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller denounced Tuesday what he called "the unfounded criticism that was leveled against" team doctors in response to Hurts' progressed condition.

The NFLPA called Tuesday night for an investigation.

The union issued a statement Tuesday evening demanding more transparency.

"The NFLPA is not aware of any NFL investigations into the medical care provided to Jalen Hurts," the union said in a statement. "In fact, the league previously informed the union that it did not plan to review the care he received.

"Before conclusions are drawn about how this situation was handled, there must be a full investigation into what occurred. Determining the facts is essential to ensuring players receive the highest level of care and protection going forward."

Goodell reiterated Wednesday that "I think our protocols were incredibly good there."

"The most important thing here is Jalen's health, ultimately …" Goodell said. "I'm more worried about his health ultimately, but the protocols were followed."