Chargers’ Donald Parham Jr. diagnosed with concussion, likely to leave hospital today
The Chargers announced that tight end Donald Parham Jr. is alert and resting comfortably at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
The team’s statement also said Parham suffered a concussion and probably would be discharged from the hospital Friday.
Coach Brandon Staley said Parham’s mother and girlfriend arrived in Los Angeles on Friday morning.
“The most important thing is that his mom is with him [and] his girlfriend, that he’s in great care … ,” Staley said. “I look forward to talking to him personally at some point today.”
Parham was taken off the field on a stretcher Thursday night after hitting his head on the turf at SoFi Stadium early in the Chargers’ 34-28 overtime loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
After taking the lead late in the fourth quarter, the Chargers couldn’t stop Patrick Mahomes from orchestrating an impressive Chiefs comeback.
He dived while attempting to make a catch in the end zone and had the ball in his hands briefly before landing.
Parham remained motionless as the game was delayed for several minutes, players from both teams kneeling nearby. He eventually was encircled by teammates as medical personnel took him away.
“It was encouraging news throughout the night and throughout the morning,” Staley said. “It’s a good sign and trending positive.”
Parham, 24, was born in Lakeland, Fla., and attended Lake Gibson High before going to Stetson University, where he established himself a potential pro during his final season.
The NFL delayed Sunday’s game between the Rams and Seattle Seahawks at SoFi Stadium to Tuesday because of COVID-19 issues affecting each team.
Parham signed with Detroit as an undrafted free agent and also spent time with Washington without appearing in an NFL game. He also played in the XFL for a stretch.
He signed with the Chargers in April 2020 and had 10 receptions for 159 yards and three touchdowns last season.
This season, Parham continued to emerge, with 20 catches for 190 yards and three scores. Coaches have praised Parham throughout his time with the Chargers for his development.
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