New Delhi, Oct. 21 -- The NFL has defended the doctors who cleared Jalen Hurts to play in London. The players' union says that conclusion needs an investigation behind it. Their competing statements Tuesday opened a dispute over how the quarterback's care should be examined after further testing found blood clots in his lungs.

Dr. Allen Sills, the NFL's chief medical officer, described the Eagles' approach as "very conservative, very patient-focused and appropriately guarded at every step." The league said it had remained in contact with Philadelphia's medical personnel and Cleveland Clinic London throughout the process, according to its October 20 account.

Later Tuesday, the NFL Players Association challenged the basis for drawing conc...