NFL: Teams must be specific about injuries

NEW YORK The NFL told its coaches Monday that they must be more specific than they have been in reporting injuries to players, saying the current wording of the policy ''invites action that runs counter to our intent.''

Under the new guidelines, approved by commissioner Paul Tagliabue and the league's competition committee, teams must now report the specific part of the body that is injured ankle or thigh for example instead of just leg as in the past.

Some coaches have been accused of deliberately fudging injuries, claiming that to disclose what area of the body is hurting would encourage opponents to deliberately go after the sore spot. However, the competition committee, which approved the memo, includes several coaches.