Panthers coach Frank Reich provides update on injured rookie Chandler Zavala

Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich had one piece of good news following the team’s fifth loss of the season on Sunday. Injured rookie lineman Chandler Zavala is expected to travel back to Charlotte with the team after going to a hospital during the game against the Lions.

“Everything checked out well,” Reich said, regarding Zavala’s neck injury. “He’s got movement in all extremities so we’re very encouraged about that and thankful to the medical team that handled it.

“I think there’s a chance that he’ll be able to fly back with us on the plane, it’s trending in that direction. We’re thankful that he’s okay and that it’s trending in that direction.”

Zavala injured in Panthers’ loss to Detroit

The game between the Carolina Panthers and Detroit Lions came to an abrupt pause on Sunday due to a medical emergency on the field. Zavala collapsed mid-play as he was blocking a Lions defensive lineman and had to take a cart off the field. Luckily, the rookie was able to signal that he was alright with a thumbs up as the cart drove to the locker room.

Due to the injury, the game officials halted play for five minutes to clear up the situation. As Zavala received medical attention, the Lions and Panthers players gathered together around the injured lineman.

According to a spokesperson for the Panthers, Zavala was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation of a potential neck injury.

The Panthers social media account tweeted, “Prayers for Chandler Zavala,” after the incident. The organization drafted the former NC State standout with the No. 114 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He started at left guard for the team on Sunday but didn’t return after the first quarter.

Carolina ended up falling 42-24 without Zavala on the field after turning the ball over three times in the first half. Quarterback Bryce Young went 25-for-41 for 247 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. 

Detroit returned wide receiver Jameson Williams to the lineup for the first time this season. Back after his gambling suspension was reduced to four games, the 2022 first-round pick out of Alabama was slated to play “around 20 snaps,” per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. He ended the Lions’ win with two grabs on three targets for two yards.

Up next for the 0-5 Panthers is a trip to Miami. The Dolphins are 4-1 after beating the New York Giants 31-16 on Sunday.