Carolina Panthers tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders was carted off the field on Sunday following a frightening play, but fortunately he avoided a major injury.
Sanders caught a pass from Bryce Young late in the first half of the Panthers’ 30-27 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. The rookie was tackled low by a defender and went head over heels. Sanders landed directly on the crown of his helmet and remained on the ground in obvious pain. You can see the play here.
The Panthers announced during the game that Sanders had been taken to a local hospital for further evaluation. On Monday, head coach Dave Canales told reporters that Sanders was back with the team after sustaining a neck injury that is not considered serious.
Ja’Tavion Sanders avoided a serious injury, per Dave Canales. It is a neck injury and they are working through the evaluation of the injury. He’s in the building (or at least was). #Panthers
— Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) November 25, 2024
Sanders was placed on a backboard after he landed on his head, as is often standard procedure with injuries involving the neck or spine. He raised his arms to acknowledge the fans as he was carted off, which was a positive sign.
Sanders was drafted in the fourth round this year out of Texas. He was on pace for one of his best games of the year with 3 catches for 49 yards prior to his exit on Sunday. Sanders is now up to 29 catches for 302 yards and a touchdown on the season.
