Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer has left Oakland's Sunday-afternoon meeting with the Carolina Panthers in the first quarter after taking a hard hit with his team trailing, 7-0. Palmer sustained a rib injury and his return is questionable, according to the team.

Palmer was hit by Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy, who was then flagged for roughing the passer for leading with his helmet. Hardy hit Palmer from behind while Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson hit Palmer from his visible side.

Palmer stayed on the field for a while before being taken to the locker room, where his status to return is uncertain.

Quarterback Matt Leinart took over for Palmer after the veteran left the field, while Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor, who has a reception on the day, is being used in a variety of capacities.

Palmer had completed three passes for 31 yards before he left, including his 22-yard strike to Pryor on a trick play.

This post first appeared on SB Nation.