Carolina Panthers’ Hayden Hurst Diagnosed with Post Traumatic Amnesia after Concussion
Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst has not played since sustaining a concussion during a game against the Chicago Bears on November 9. In an announcement made on social media, his father, Jerry, revealed that Hurst has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Amnesia (PTA). This update sheds light on the dangers associated with football and highlights the importance of player safety.
Post Traumatic Amnesia is defined by Headway, a brain injury association, as a state where an injured person is conscious and awake but exhibits bizarre or uncharacteristic behavior or speech. It is distinct from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a condition more widely known in football circles. Unlike CTE, which can only be confirmed post-mortem, PTA can be diagnosed in living individuals.
Further details surrounding Hurst’s condition have not been disclosed other than his father’s social media announcement. However, it is worth noting that Hurst is involved in the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign this month. Through this initiative, he aims to raise awareness about veteran suicide. Additionally, Hurst leads The Hayden Hurst Family Foundation, which provides mental health programs to the community.
Hurst, a first-round draft pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, joined the Panthers as a free agent earlier this year. Prior to his injury, he had accumulated 18 receptions for 184 yards and a touchdown in nine games.
Videos surfaced on Wednesday showing Hurst participating in a non-contact jersey during Panthers practice. This suggests that he may be making progress towards a return, although the timeline for his recovery remains unclear.
The Carolina Panthers organization, as well as the NFL, prioritize player safety and have implemented various protocols to address head injuries and protect the well-being of athletes. While football can be a thrilling sport, incidents like Hurst’s concussion serve as a reminder of the risks involved. The focus on raising awareness about mental health and providing support to those in need remains paramount in the efforts to ensure the overall well-being of players both during and after their careers.
As Hurst continues his recovery journey, the Panthers and fans around the league are hopeful for his swift return to the football field.
