The NFL and NFL Players Association have warned the Dolphins for "not strictly" following the league's concussion protocol with quarterback Matt Moore during their wild-card playoff loss to the Steelers earlier this month.
The Dolphins were not fined or penalized but were told both are possible if they have any future violations of the protocol.
"The Miami Dolphins were notified in a letter co-signed by Dr. Hunt Batjer, co-chair of the NFL head, neck & spine committee and Dr. Thom Mayer, medical director for the NFLPA, that the NFL-NFLPA review determined that the protocol was not strictly followed," the league said in a statement. "The letter further advised the Dolphins that they must engage their staff in a full review of the protocol and conduct additional education, if necessary. The Dolphins were also advised that any future deviation from the protocol may result in enhanced discipline, including monetary fines assessed against the club."
Moore was hit high by Steelers outside linebacker Bud Dupree in the second quarter Jan. 8 and was temporarily knocked out of the game. He returned to the game after missing two plays and told reporters afterward that he "got smoked" but didn't sustain a concussion.
Because Moore was bleeding from the mouth, he was allowed to return to the game too quickly, the league said in a statement. The determination was made after the NFL and the NFLPA reviewed the case.
The league said there is no indication competitive issues had an impact on the care Moore received, nor did he demonstrate any concussion symptoms during or following the game.
In the statement, the NFL said its goal is to have all 32 teams on the same page in regards to how concussions are handled.
"The objective of the concussion protocol is to ensure a standardized process composed of best practices is used to identify and manage potential concussions," the league said. "Concussion diagnosis and management is often a difficult and complex exercise, compounded by hectic game conditions. Accurate diagnosis and management of concussion requires a collaborative approach among experienced physicians on the sideline, each acutely aware of his or her responsibilities and all committed to the strict application of the protocol designed to protect players."
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.