Cardinals' Carson Palmer in concussion protocol, could miss Thursday start

Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer is in the concussion protocol, and doubtful for Thursday's game vs. the 49ers.

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer left Sunday’s 17–13 loss to the Los Angeles Rams after a hard hit late in the fourth quarter, where he was taken to the locker room and evaluated for a concussion.

Palmer did not return to the game and was placed in the league's concussion protocol, putting his status for Thursday night's game against the San Francisco 49ers in doubt.

Palmer was taken down on a third-down sack by Aaron Donald and Eugene Sims, and hit his head hard against the ground. He was looked at on the sideline, and replaced by backup Drew Stanton the following drive.

Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians said if Palmer doesn't pass the protocol he won't play on Thursday.

"Probably not, probably not," Arians said. "We'll be very, very careful with this injury. It is not like a sore wrist or a sore shoulder."

Before leaving, Palmer completed 23 of 36 passes for 288 yards and a touchdown with an interception. Stanton completed just four of 11 for 37 yards and two picks in relief.

– Kenny Ducey and Scooby Axson