Panthers rookie TE leaves field after landing on helmet

On November 25, 2024By Littum

The Carolina Panthers have had very few bright spots on offense, but rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders was one of them. He was a fourth-round pick, but quickly emerged and developed a good relationship with Bryce Young. Unfortunately, he suffered a scary injury during Sunday’s contest with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ja’Tavion Sanders made a grab on the sideline and turned upfield on the Panthers’ final move of the first half. With little time left, Sanders tried to push for the first down and go out of bounds. The defender knocked him down and Sanders inadvertently somersaulted out of bounds and landed on his head/neck area.

Ja’Tavion Sanders #panthers

Lands right on his head. Concussion and neck injury concerns. Being carried off the pitch.

Hope he’ll be okay pic.twitter.com/sJT9csCQie

— Tom Christ, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT (@FantasyInjuryT) 24 November 2024

Sanders was completely unable to get back up. After a commercial break, Sanders was still down and being watched, but a back plate was delivered during that time. Finally he was carefully lifted onto the cart and driven away.

He was able to get a thumbs up from the crowd, who let out a wild cheer at the sight. Otherwise, his arms were crossed and he didn’t move. His helmet hadn’t even been removed at that point. Given the severity of the injury and the time he spent down, he is unlikely to return after the break. The immediate concern is a neck injury or concussion, neither of which are good.

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