Chris Close has thrown his support behind the NRL’s safety protocols shake-up. 

A mandatory, 11-day stand-down period for players diagnosed with a category one concussion will come into effect this week.

It comes after Knights star Kalyn Ponga suffered his fourth concussion in 10 months during last week’s win over the Tigers.

“We now know there is serious damage that can happen,” Choppy told Laurel, Gary & Mark. “Not always, but can happen as a result of concussions.

“I think that’s maybe a step in the right direction and I think young Kalyn Ponga needs to be protected by the game and by his club.

“At least there’s some things in motion to protect our players.”

Press PLAY below to hear why Choppy thinks Ponga has suffered so many concussions 

Image: 9News