Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton 1) is tended to by medical personnel after being sacked in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton 1) is tended to by medical personnel after being sacked in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018.

News

NFL, NFLPA to review how Panthers handled hit on QB Newton

By STEVE REED AP Sports Writer

January 08, 2018 02:28 PM

UPDATED 1 MINUTE AGO

CHARLOTTE, N.C.

The NFL and NFL Players Association plan to conduct a joint review to determine if the Carolina Panthers followed the correct concussion protocol with quarterback Cam Newton in their 31-26 playoff loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

If the concussion protocol was not properly followed the team is subject to discipline, including a $150,000 fine.

Panthers interim general manager Marty Hurney said the medical staff "did everything the right way" when it came to handling Newton's injury.

Newton took a shot to the head area from Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata midway through the fourth quarter. Newton took a knee as he walked toward the sideline and pointed toward his right eye. He sat out one play, but returned on the next series and finished the game.