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Panthers interim head coach says injured LB Marquis Haynes is ‘doing better’

Marquis Haynes Sr. JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 31: Marquis Haynes Sr. #98 of the Carolina Panthers attempts to tackle C.J. Beathard #3 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second half at EverBank Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)

CHARLOTTE — A Carolina Panthers linebacker is back home after suffering a head injury on Sunday.

Marquis Haynes Sr. entered concussion protocol after he was carted off the field during Sunday’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Haynes was able to fly home Monday after staying overnight in a Florida hospital.

In a news conference Wednesday, interim head coach Chris Tabor said he was “scared” after witnessing Haynes’ injury.

“I was -- as I told my wife, that was-- I was scared, because you love the guy,” Tabor said. “It’s always tough to watch any player, regardless of whether it’s your own or an opponent, when they take you off on the board.”

Tabor said he was relieved to have Haynes back in the building on Wednesday.

“Glad he’s back,” Tabor said. “He’s back. His sense of humor is back, so it’s good to have him around.”

Haynes is still in concussion protocol but Tabor is encouraged by his progress.

“He’s doing better,” Tabor said. “Obviously still in the concussion protocol, but to see him in the building, to be able to visit with him that night, was very relieving.”

The Panthers were shut out Sunday for the first time since 2002.

The team’s final game of the season will be against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home.

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