Panthers TE Sends Encouraging Message After Injury

Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst suffered a significant head injury last month, and the aftermath is particularly alarming. Hurst’s father disclosed this week that an independent neurologist diagnosed his son with post-traumatic amnesia following a concussion in Week 10 against the Chicago Bears. The 30-year-old player sat out the next three games for the Panthers, and it remains uncertain if he will return to play this season.

Interim head coach Chris Tabor stated that Hurst is still undergoing the NFL’s concussion protocol but refrained from providing a timeline for his return to the field. Hurst expressed gratitude to the Panthers organization for their support and outlined the symptoms of the injury. He clarified that the diagnosis is not career-ending, emphasizing that post-traumatic amnesia can impact a person’s memory of various aspects of their life, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Although the situation is undeniably worrisome, Hurst is optimistic that it won’t have long-term implications for his playing career, as he conveyed in his social media post. In his first season with the Panthers, having signed a three-year deal, Hurst previously played for the Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons. A first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, he has recorded 18 receptions for 184 yards and one touchdown in nine games this season.

Notably, Hurst has been outspoken about his mental health struggles, revealing a past suicide attempt while intoxicated in 2016. However, he has maintained sobriety since then. Despite expressing a desire to return to play before the season concludes, the Panthers, facing playoff elimination, may opt not to risk further injury.