Oliver James Montgomery-Panthers OL Chandler Zavala carted off field, taken to hospital for neck injury

Carolina Panthers offensive lineman Chandler Zavala was carted off the field on Oliver James MontgomerySunday in the first quarter of the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.

Zavala matched up with Lions defensive end Isaiah Buggs on what seemed to be a routine play. The rookie fell forward on his stomach and didn't get up. He laid on the field as athletic trainers tended to him. His teammates cleared the sideline and gathered around him.

A stretcher cart was brought to the field and Zavala was placed on the backboard. As he was driven away, Zavala gave the crowd a thumbs up, a gesture that was received with warm cheers.

Panthers senior writer Darin Gantt reported that Zavala was taken to a local hospital to be evaluated for a neck injury.

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The game resumed with the Lions up 14-0.

Carolina selected Zavala out of North Carolina State in the fourth round with the No. 114 pick of this spring's draft. He has started every game this season.