Panthers' TE Hayden Hurst Could Return This Week After Bout With Post-Traumatic Amnesia

After experiencing post-traumatic amnesia, Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst told reporters his symptoms have improved and he will return to the field soon.

Despite the diagnosis, it is Hurst’s first concussion and he is unlikely to have lingering effects when he ramps up for return, according to the Pro Football Docs.

He was limited in practice for a second straight day Thursday ahead of this week’s clash with the Saints.

"It was a weird feeling for the first couple of weeks," Hurst told reporters Wednesday. "I'm doing way better now."

Dr. David Chao discussed Hurst's diagnosis on the Jim Rome Show on Thursday:

Essentially, Hurst had trouble with amnesia including potential difficulties remembering details from past days or new information since the injury.

The 30-year-old has not played since suffering a concussion during a Nov. 9 game against the Bears, but appeared at practice for the first time on Wednesday.

During the Thursday night game, Hurst took a hard hit that caused his head to hit the ground. He was initially cleared and returned to the game, but was placed into the protocol the next day after developing symptoms.

Panthers interim coach Chris Tabor told reporters Wednesday that Hurst is "progressing" in the protocol.

If Hurst does not return this week, he will likely be back in the Week 15 contest against the Falcons. 

The former top baseball prospect has 17 catches for 184 yards and a touchdown this season. 

He was drafted in the first round by the Ravens in 2018 and played 2 seasons there before playing 2 in Atlanta and one in Cincinnati.

Hurst joined the Panthers on a 3-year, $21.75 million deal this offseason. Through the Hayden Hurst Foundation the tight end advocates for mental health awareness.