A joint review by the NFL and NFLPA of the Carolina Panthers’ handling of quarterback Cam Newton following a big hit in a playoff loss at New Orleans determined the Panthers did not violate the league’s concussion protocol.
Officials determined that eye and knee injuries contributed to Newton appearing unstable after the fourth-quarter hit against the Saints, and found the Panthers’ medical staff’s evaluation of Newton followed protocol, according to a statement released by the NFL on Wednesday.
The league’s enhanced protocol requires players who demonstrate gross motor instability or a significant loss of balance to be evaluated for a concussion in the locker room.