NEW YORK — The NFL will be hiring a full-time chief medical officer to work with team medical staffs, the players’ union and league committees.

In a letter sent to the 32 team presidents and obtained by The Associated Press on Wednesday, Commissioner Roger Goodell said the chief medical officer also would work with “the broader independent scientific and medical communities.”

The new hire will replace Dr. Elliot Pellman, who is retiring after 30 years in the league, and will have expanded duties.

Much of the early criticism of the NFL regarding its handling of concussions was directed at Pellman, who once famously downplayed links between head trauma and football.

CARDINALS: Safety Chris Clemons is facing possible assault charges for allegedly punching a woman outside a Scottsdale nightclub.

Scottsdale police are recommending city prosecutors pursue charges of assault with reckless injury and disorderly conduct against Clemons.

According to police documents, Clemons is accused of punching a woman in the face, nose and mouth outside a Scottsdale nightclub May 8.

Authorities say the victim fell, hitting her head. She told officers that Clemons struck her while she was arguing with another woman.

A FORMER NFL player who suffered what the league deemed a career-ending concussion has sued insurer Lloyd’s of London for denying a $1 million insurance policy for professional athletes.

The NFL declared former Carolina Panthers defensive back Haruki Nakamura fully and permanently disabled after the August 2013 concussion he received in a preseason game, awarding him monthly benefits.