North Charlotte Today

Carolina Panthers rookie tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders has been discharged from the hospital following a neck injury sustained during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Head coach Dave Canales confirmed that Sanders is undergoing further evaluation but described his release from the hospital as "good news."

"JT was discharged from the hospital, so that's good news," Canales stated after the Panthers' 30-27 loss to the Chiefs at Bank of America Stadium. "I don't want to make any definitive comments about that, but certainly a positive sign that he's coming back here to the facility, right now."

The incident occurred just before halftime when Sanders was carted off on a backboard after a hit that left him down for six minutes. The play saw Sanders land on his head after being tackled by two Chiefs defenders. As he was taken off the field, Sanders briefly raised both arms and gave a thumbs up.

Running back Chuba Hubbard expressed concern over neck injuries, stating, "Obviously anytime there's a neck injury, it can be scary... Obviously praying for him, he is a great guy."

Quarterback Bryce Young reflected on the emotional impact of seeing such an injury unfold. "The football part kind of turns off at a time like that and we all are just—it's really, really rough to see," Young said. "We're all praying for him and we all just, in that moment, just want him to be healthy."

While specific details regarding Sanders' condition remain undisclosed, Canales mentioned that Sanders continues to have movement in his extremities.

"Yes, all that was true," Canales confirmed about initial reports of Sanders’ condition. "But just a really scary play…it was a very scary play for JT."

The Panthers (3-8) are set to face divisional rivals Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-6) next week. However, it remains uncertain if Sanders will participate in this game.

Young praised his teammate's character and work ethic: "JT...he's done a lot of great things on the field and worked super hard but he's an even better person...Just the type of guy he is who cares about everyone."