What is the current status of Hayden Hurst? Panthers' tight end experiences a significant health concern following a collision with the Bears.
Hayden Hurst, the tight end for the Carolina Panthers, endured a brutal hit during their Week 10 matchup against the Chicago Bears. Following this impactful collision, Hurst was promptly placed in concussion protocol and has not seen action in the NFL since that incident.
However, recent developments reveal that an independent neurologist, as confirmed by Hurst's father, Jerry Hurst, diagnosed the South Carolina alumnus with post-traumatic amnesia as a direct consequence of the hit in Chicago. In a subsequent tweet, Jerry Hurst requested prayers for Hayden, as it appears that his recovery will be a gradual process.
As for when Hayden Hurst might make his return, the National Institutes of Health defines the duration of post-traumatic amnesia as the period from the injury moment to the resumption of continuous standard memory. Therefore, predicting when he will be back on the gridiron remains uncertain, with the primary focus now being on his optimal recovery.
Prior to the independent diagnosis, Hayden Hurst seemed to be making progress toward his return. After the Chicago game, during which he entered concussion protocol, he was observed practicing in a red jersey on a Wednesday. However, due to the recent diagnosis, Hurst will miss his fourth consecutive game.
Reflecting on his performance earlier in the season, before facing this significant health setback, Hurst had a decent run with the Carolina Panthers. Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, he had caught 18 passes for 184 yards and scored one touchdown. Hurst was in the process of building chemistry with rookie quarterback Bryce Young, as the Panthers steadily improved their offensive performance. Unfortunately, adversity struck in the form of the worst health issue of his six-year NFL career.
Before joining the Panthers, Hurst had stints with three other NFL franchises: the Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons, and the Cincinnati Bengals. His standout season came in 2020 when he recorded 56 receptions for 571 yards and six touchdowns. Without Hurst, the Carolina Panthers will have to rely on tight ends Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas to shoulder the offensive load.
However, if they find their existing options inadequate, they might consider reaching out to perennial Pro Bowler Zach Ertz, who recently secured his release from the Arizona Cardinals. With a current season record of 1-11, the Panthers are in dire need of assistance as they approach the conclusion of the season.
| POLL | ||
6 DECEMBRE | 16 ANSWERS What is the current status of Hayden Hurst? Panthers' tight end experiences a significant health concern following a collision with the Bears. Is the NFL doing enough to avoid scary hits? | ||
| yes | 11 | 68.8 % |
| No | 5 | 31.3 % |
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