Last night’s season opener between the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos did not disappoint. The Panthers high-powered offense against the Broncos’ stingy defense promised to be a great way to kick off the 2016 NFL season.
One thing that was evident and likely the source of many discussions today were the number of helmet to helmet hits on Panther’s quarterback Cam Newton. The reigning MVP sustained quite a few brutal hits and was examined for a possible head injury following the game.
After treatment, Newton told reporters that medical staff simply asked him a couple of questions and nothing more. He would not have been allowed to speak with media if he were in the concussion protocol.
During a time when CTE concerns are prevalent and highly regarded, the NFL released the following statement regarding Cam:
There was communication between medical personnel on the Carolina sideline, including the unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant, and the two independent certified athletic trainer spotters in the booth. During stoppage in play while on-field officials were in the process of administrating penalties, the unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant and team physician requested video from the spotters and reviewed the play. They concluded there were no indications of a concussion that would require further evaluation and the removal of the player from the game.
The Panthers definitely dodged a bullet there as Cam is an essential component to coming anywhere near last season’s success. We’re glad he’s alright; head injuries impact players long after they hang up the cleats.