This hit that concussed Cam Newton was preventable and stupid.
Most anyone who watched Newton slow down before scoring and take a shot on the head knew this as the play unfolded, though Newton himself remained rather mum on the topic.
Not anymore. Newton not only admits the play was terrible, but says he’s happy it happened, according to ESPN’s David Newton:
Part of me is happy for [the concussion], just to know and go through it and to show so many people this is a real issue and this is a real problem.
And part of me is like, ‘That was preventable. Just run through the damn end zone Cam, and everything will be all right.’ After talking to Jackie Newton, that won’t happen again.
When I looked back at it, I was trying to brace for the hit, and before I could it was just … bam! It happened! I was down and like, ‘Man …’ I didn’t even know if I scored. That’s when I knew I was messed up.
It’s good to hear a player somewhat reverse course and admit the danger of concussions, though also a shame it took Cam suffering one to change his ideas about it.
Alas, Newton won’t much change how he plays the game. Running the ball is one of his strengths and something that sets him apart. The new outlook on injuries, though, might make him a little less reckless while carrying the rock.
At 1-5, the Panthers certainly can’t afford to lose Newton again. Those around him just have to hope what he’s saying isn’t just talk for the camera.
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