Brian Westbrook Suffered Severe Concussion

Andy Reid says he is “counting on” Brian Westbrook playing this Sunday against the Giants. Science says otherwise.

Westbrook was knocked unconscious by Londer Fletcher’s knee on Monday night and doesn’t remember the hit at all. Both are signs than the running back suffered a severe — or Grade 3 — concussion.

“If he was unconscious he is probably out at least a few weeks,” [former Eagles and Flyers team physician Art] Bartolozzi said. “Amnesia means the hard drive has been shaken. The brain is like a computer. If you lose data, it tells you something is wrong with the computer.”

Bartolozzi said it’s also difficult for players to retain their fitness level after they have a concussion.

“One of the things that happens with a head injury is that unlike other parts of the body, exercise does not help the recovery,” Bartolozzi said. “It’s tough to maintain the fitness because the brain doesn’t like a lot of conditioning exercises.”

So, essentially, he suffered a Tim Tebow-esque concussion. Anything less than several weeks off would be endangering Westbrook’s brain.

If Westbrook cannot play, rookie LeSean McCoy will start in his place. McCoy has shown glimpses of potential when he’s been on the field, but overall, hasn’t been very effective -- he’s averaged 2.5 YPC in his last three games. He is also a liability in pass blocking schemes.