It looks like Cincinnati linebacker Vontaze Burfict can’t seem to stay out of the news today (Wed., October 15, 2014), and it isn’t exactly for good reasons.

He was fined $25,000 dollars for clearly twisting the ankles of both Cam Newton and Greg Olsen during Cincinnati’s Week 7 tie with Carolina, and now he’s affecting the Panther’s lineup in a different way.

According to the Charlotte Observer, breakout rookie wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin was held out of today’s practice with post-concussion symptoms after he was taken out of the game following a big hit from Burfict that garnered a penalty for unnecessary roughness.

Carolina head coach Ron Rivera said the only reason Benjamin returned to action was because he passed the in-game concussion protocol:

“That’s the only reason he went back in the game.”

Rivera also reiterated that Benjamin’s concussion was of the ‘light variety’ to ESPN Nation reporter David Newton:

Rivera reiterates, “Yes, I called it mild.” on Benjamin’s concussion. #panthers

— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) October 15, 2014

Rivera confirmed that the rookie was likely concussed on the hit by Burfict, and also said it was not a dirty play, deeming it only an aggressive one.

Benjamin, who leads the ream with 311 catches for 416 yards and four touchdowns, is not expected to miss this Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers in Wisconsin.

He’s developed a solid rapport with Panthers star quarterback Cam Newton, and as the signal caller continues to heal, Benjamin should become the elite weapon that the Panthers envisioned when they drafted him in the first round of the 2014 NFL draft.

His only problem has been drops, so hopefully the concussion doesn’t lead to an increase in momentary lapses.