Carolina Panthers Tight End Hayden Hurst Diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Amnesia

Charlotte, N.C. (December 7, 2023) – Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst’s recovery and return to the football field have been thrown into uncertainty following his diagnosis of post-traumatic amnesia (PTA). The news was announced by Hurst’s father, Jerry, on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Hurst sustained a head injury during the Panthers’ November 9th game against the Chicago Bears, leading to him entering the league’s concussion protocol. The independent neurologist’s diagnosis of PTA casts a shadow over Hurst’s immediate future and raises questions about his long-term playing career.

“Hayden is currently focused on his recovery and is taking things one day at a time,” stated a spokesperson for the Panthers. “The team is providing him with all the necessary support and resources to ensure he receives the best possible care.”

The severity of Hurst’s PTA diagnosis remains unclear, as do the implications for his future on the field. Post-traumatic amnesia is a temporary memory loss caused by a head injury, and the length of time it takes to recover varies greatly depending on the individual. While some athletes suffering from PTA have been able to return to sports, others have faced longer-term challenges.

Hurst, a 30-year-old veteran of seven NFL seasons, has been a key contributor to the Panthers’ offense since signing with the team in 2022. He has caught 24 passes for 210 yards and three touchdowns this season.

His absence will be a significant blow to the Panthers, who are currently battling for a playoff spot in the NFC. The team will need to adjust their offensive strategy in Hurst’s absence, and his teammates will need to step up to fill the void.

The news of Hurst’s diagnosis has raised concerns about the league’s protocols for managing concussions and the long-term health of its players. Concussions are a serious issue in the NFL, and the league has faced criticism for not doing enough to protect its players.

Hurst’s case highlights the need for continued research and development of better concussion protocols and treatment methods. The league must ensure that players receive the best possible care and support following head injuries, and it must take steps to prevent future concussions from occurring.

In the meantime, the Carolina Panthers and the entire NFL community will be sending their thoughts and well wishes to Hayden Hurst as he recovers from this latest setback.