Will Smith is reportedly in talks to portray the real-life doctor who discovered the concussion syndrome which is plaguing America's National Football League (Nfl).

The untitled film will be based on Dr. Bennet Omalu's GQ article Game Brain, in which the forensic neuropathologist detailed his findings after performing an autopsy on deceased football player Mike Webster.

Parkland's Peter Landesman will write and direct the movie, while Ridley Scott is on board to produce, according to Variety.com.

The news of Smith's rumoured involvement comes days after he dropped out of the film adaptation of of Marcus Sakey's bestselling book Brilliance due to scheduling issues.

Landesman's movie is not the only film about sports-related concussions in the works - bosses at Parkes/MACDonald Productions are developing a project based on the book, League Of Denial: The Nfl, Concussions And The Battle For Truth, while Isiah Washington is set to star in Game Time Decision.