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Report: Investigation into Newton hits could be completed this week

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The investigation into the handling of Cam Newton following several helmet-to-helmet hits in the Carolina Panthers' season-opener could be completed this week, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday on "GameDay First."

The NFL and NFL Players Association have reportedly finished interviewing Panthers staff, medical personnel, and unaffiliated personnel.

"I'm told they're both well underway, specifically NFL officials have spoken with Carolina Panthers people, medical people who were on the scene as well as unaffiliated observers, including these spotters who were on the scene and who did request video to make sure Cam Newton was okay and then eventually make the decision that he should stay in the game," Rapoport said.

"I'm told this is a thorough review that does include scanning all the video evidence. Now Cam Newton has not been interviewed yet. That may happen. It may not necessarily happen because this really is about the process. But what we know, expected to be done fairly soon, potentially even early this week. The other key part, Cam Newton has still not shown any signs of showing a concussion."

The ripple effects of the Newton controversy have already been seen, as Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor was forced to the sideline by officials during Thursday's game after he took a hit to the head and was slow to get up.

The league initially said they believed the proper concussion protocol had been followed with Newton, but opted to open an investigation following criticism from the NFLPA over the premature statement.

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