Footy star explains what REALLY happens when players go off the field following a head knock

Sydney Roosters star Chad Townsend has revealed the detailed process all players undergo once they are concussed during an NRL match.

Townsend, 34, who recently announced he is retiring at the end of the season, explained what happens in the sheds.

Responding to a question from one of his Instagram followers on The Chad Townsend Show, the premiership-winning halfback started by saying if a player is instantly ruled out due to severe concussion, they are not required do the test.

‘Once you first get into the sheds they determine your category,’ he said.

‘Then you have to remember a series of words….(from memory) they are jacket, saddle, gold, diamond, fish and wagon.

‘You do that twice and then they ask you to count the months backwards, starting from December.

Sydney Roosters star Chad Townsend has revealed the detailed process players undergo once they are concussed during an NRL match

The halfback responded to a question surrounding head knocks from one of his podcast followers on The Chad Townsend Show

The premiership-winning no.7 with the Sharks recently announced he is retiring at the end of the season (pictured, with his family)

‘Next they ask (more common questions) like where are we, what day is it and what is the (NRL) score.’

The testing doesn’t end there, with a number sequence activity before the players are required to walk in a straight line and do a series of balance drills.

If cleared, the players generally return to the field in 15 minutes.

Townsend is one of only five halfbacks to win a premiership in the past decade, alongside Nathan Cleary, Jahrome Hughes, Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston.

The No.7 played a key role in Cronulla’s 2016 success, helping the Sharks break their 50-year drought and lift the NRL trophy for the first time.

Townsend signed with the Roosters this year, playing the opening month of the  season for the Tricolours before being dropped to NSW Cup.

The club have Sam Walker and Hugo Savala slated as their long-term halves, while Daly Cherry-Evans is expected to be a high-profile addition in 2026.

‘Chad’s NRL journey speaks volumes about his character, professionalism and passion for rugby league,’ Roosters coach Trent Robinson said once Townsend’s pending retirement was confirmed.

‘His career is matched by the respect he has earned from his teammates and coaches for his work ethic, leadership and integrity, both on and off the field.

‘Although we have only had one season together, Chad’s love for the game and approach to the sport have really stood out.’