Panthers' Heinicke leaves 1st start with elbow injury

Carolina Panthers quarterback Taylor Heinicke left his first career start against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter of Sunday's game with a left elbow injury, and his return is questionable, according to the team.

Heinicke was replaced under center by Kyle Allen with Cam Newton inactive for Week 16.

Heinicke started the game, his fifth appearance of the season, by completing nine of 13 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown on the game-opening drive. The 25-year-old added 14 yards on the ground.

Allen, 22, had never previously appeared in an NFL game.

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