NFL star taken to hospital after terrifying neck injury during Panthers game

08 October 2023 , 18:00

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Both teams watched on in fear as Chandler Zavala received treatment. (Image: David Newton/Twitter)

Carolina Panthers star Chandler Zavala crumpled face-first into the turf in a frightening incident in Sunday's NFL clash with the Detroit Lions.

The offensive lineman appeared to lose consciousness while blocking for a run play at Ford Field, and his team has since confirmed he has a neck injury. The left guard engaged with defensive tackle Isaiah Buggs and sank to the floor without taking an obvious blow to the head area.

The episode sparked huge concern from both sets of players, with both teams lined up around him and fearfully watching on as the rookie, 24, was tended to by medical staff.

Zavala was carted off the field wearing a neck brace, but he spectators' worst fears to rest by raising his thumb in the air, but he was swiftly taken away from the stadium. FOX sideline reporter Pam Oliver said: "The Panthers tell me Zavala is being taken to the hospital for further evaluation. He has suffered a neck injury."

The game resumed quickly after the delay, with the Panthers scoring a touchdown through tight end Tommy Tremble soon after to make the score 14-7 to the Lions midway through the second quarter. The Lions went on to win 42-24.

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Zavala was taken in the fourth round of the draft in April after impressing at North Carolina State. He has started all five games for the Panthers this season.

Medical personnel tended to Chandler Zavala on the turf at Ford Field before he was carted away and taken to hospital. (Rey Del Rio/Getty Images)

"Everything has checked out well," head coach Frank Reich told reporters after the game. "He has got movement in all his extremities, so we're very encouraged by that and we're very thankful for the medical team and the way they handled it.

"I think there is a chance he will be able to fly back with us on the plane. It's trending in that direction and we're thankful that he's OK and moving in the right direction.

Sam Frost