Cam Newton in concussion protocol from hit during loss to Falcons
ATLANTA -- Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton has been placed in the concussion protocol after he was taken out of Sunday's 48-33 loss to the Falcons in the fourth quarter following a hard hit on a two-point conversion run.
The reigning NFL MVP was hit by Falcons linebacker Deion Jones as he reached the goal line. It was similar to a play last year against the New Orleans Saints when Newton wasn't evaluated for a concussion until after he completed the drive.
Derek Anderson came in for Newton on the ensuing drive Sunday and finished the game.
The Panthers and the NFL came under fire when Newton wasn't taken out of the opener against the Denver Broncos after taking a hard hit to the head that left him on the ground longer than normal.
After the Broncos game, Newton passed three concussion tests, but the league and the NFL Players Association are investigating whether the situation was handled correctly at the time.
Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Friday that he had not yet been questioned on the matter.
