NFL Investigating Panthers

The NFL has sought an explanation from the Carolina Panthers regarding a possible concussion to quarterback Cam Newton.

The incident occurred during the Panthers’ 31-26 defeat to the New Orleans Saints. In the 4th quarter of the NFC Wild Card Game, Cam Newton received a blow to the head. He was slow to get to his feet after the collision with Saints defensive tackle David Onymata. Afterwards, he dropped to the ground while making his way to the sideline for treatment.

However, Newton only missed one play. He was replaced by Derek Anderson while undergoing a concussion test. He quickly returned to the play.

According to ESPN, the NFL has asked the Carolina Panthers medical staff why Newton wasn’t taken to the locker room. Under new rules issued last month, players must undertake a locker room examination in the event of a head injury.

The exact wording states that the rules “require a locker room concussion evaluation for all players demonstrating gross or sustained vertical instability (e.g., stumbling or falling to the ground when trying to stand).”

Although the incident seemed to meet these criteria, the letter of the law was not followed. If the post-game explanation from Newton is true, it is because he sustained an eye injury.

Doubt

Per ESPN, after the game, he said: “I know it was precautionary things for a concussion, but it wasn’t a hit to the head it was my eye. My helmet had came down low enough over my eyelid and it got pressed by the player’s stomach, I believe. I thought somebody stuck their finger in my eye, but I’ve got my visor, so that couldn’t happen.”

Given that the league is investigating the incident, there is debate over whether it was a genuine injury. Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan expressed some doubt after the game:

“Didn’t he look a little dazed? A little fazed? He definitely wasn’t unfazed” he said.

Whether Newton’s story is true or not, the rules were definitely broken. The NFL concussion protocol has already come in for scrutiny this season.

Earlier in the season, the Seattle Seahawks were fined $100,000 by the league. Quarterback Russell Wilson was seen immediately returning to play after a head injury. Texans quarterback Tom Savage was seen writing on the ground after a collision. He quickly returned to play before being withdrawn, which the Texans were not fined for.