When I tore my ACL the physical exam was inconclusive like SB and I was cleared for work and told I had a sprain Or hyperextension appx 30 days later when I went to a specialist and had the MRI the Tear was easily diagnosed and one end had attempted to re connect to a bone. ACL tears seem to have different symptoms depending on the severity A partial tear I am told hurts my complete tear was hardly noticeable other than the instability I felt on that leg.
Manual physical examines are a quick way to determine if there is a rupture at the ACL. There are multiple tests to determine this, but there are 3 that are most commonly used. However, there is no 100% way to determine what kind of damage is done without actually cutting open the knee. The MRI is obviously the MOST accurate as it will give a doc the most accurate picture of the damage. The general population usually isn't directed to have an MRI unless there is a for sure failure of the test. Mainly due to the cost, insurance, etc and the fact that many everyday individuals can do just fine without an ACL.
Pro athletes are a different story. The tests Bradford may have passed or been borderline. They will never take chances on pro athletes and an MRI would happen probably no matter if he passed these manual tests or not.
Everyone handles pain differently. Some athletes tear their ACLs/ligaments and continue playing only later to find out they had a tear. Others go down and roll in pain with simple bruises. This is player dependent.
I too had a complete tear and it hurt like hell. I have talked to others who have torn it and it did not hurt.
My best guess is Bradford may have passed the ACL test, but the team is worried about meniscus, PCL, and possible the MCL depending on where the force came from.
Let's hope for the best!