Tony Grimes exits game against Florida A&M with injury, possible concussion

North Carolina defensive back Tony Grimes took a blow to the head while making a tackle, leaving the game to be examined for a concussion. The tackle saw Grimes go low to stop the ball carrier, only to have the running back finish the run headfirst and collide helmet-to-helmet. Grimes laid on the field for a moment in pain, but quickly got up with the medical staff and left the field under his own power.

After being examined for some time on the sideline, Grimes was then seen jogging into the locker room — presumably for further examination. At the time of his injury, it was unclear if his further examination was precautionary or because of the on-field examination.

Tony Grimes examined for potential concussion

Shortly afterwards, North Carolina provided a small update on the injury — and informed the broadcast team that Grimes would be out for the remainder of the game.

“Tony Grimes was in that medical tent for quite a while and then finally went jogging into the locker room. [He] kinda had his head down the whole time. I did just get official word, he is out for the rest of the game. They’re calling it an upper body injury. Obviously very disappointing for him and his team, he was looking to be a more consistent leader. So we’ll see how he is going forward, but out for the game today,” explained Kelsey Riggs on the ACC Network broadcast.

Heading into 2022, Grimes had a few key areas circled where he needs to improve. At a recent summer press conference, the corner explained exactly how he needs to improve in order to catch the attention of NFL scouts.

“I wanna say I wasn’t as physical as I want to be on the field to make it in the league, coaches love physical defensive backs. So, I got to be more physical on the field and I got to be consistent. I got to make plays when the ball is in the air in man coverage and zone.”

Grimes had nine pass breakups and was a high-end contributor on the Carolina defense last year. But heading into year three, he wants to make his good play consistent and more physical.

His position coach, Dre Bly, believes a breakout could be in store in Grimes’ junior season.