Cam Newton returns to limited status on injury report

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton a limited participant on initial injury report.

Cam Newton was a limited participant each day last week, not throwing during the portion of practice open to the media. Fortunately, he was absent from the final injury report and played all but one snap on offense for the Carolina Panthers against the Baltimore Ravens.

Following an impressive performance two weeks ago over the final quarter against Philadelphia, in which Newton and the offense scored three consecutive touchdowns to win, both picked up where they left off upon their return to Charlotte. After allowing a Ravens touchdown and then punting on their initial possession, the Panthers again found the end zone in three consecutive drives marching to a 24-7 halftime lead.

Newton completed all but eight of his 29 pass attempts and showed no ill effects from his sore right shoulder other than forfeiting an opportunity at a 50-plus yard Hail Mary prior to the break. His two touchdown passes extended a season streak to six games with multiple scores through the air, only being shut out in the season opener against Dallas – although Newton did score on the ground.

More from Cat Crave

• Ranking the top-five QB prospects the Panthers could draft in 2023
• 4 remaining Carolina Panthers cap crunches after Damien Wilson release
• Could Duce Staley help Carolina Panthers land Jamaal Williams in 2023?
• How much could the Carolina Panthers afford to offer Lamar Jackson?
• 4 Panthers rumors to emerge from 2023 NFL Scouting Combine

Beginning preparations for a Week 9 home game against divisional rival Tampa Bay, Newton again found himself listed as a limited participant on the Panthers injury report with a sore right shoulder. Hopefully the extra care and precaution again pays dividends as Sunday represents only the midpoint of the season and Carolina has already enjoyed their bye week.

If the Panthers can limit the strain on his arm and continue keeping him well protected in games, Newton should continue to lead and will hopefully remain healthy enough to perform – especially if his production continues at the current MVP level.

If not, then backup Taylor Heinicke becomes option No. 1 but there are many factors, including a projection on any potential time missed and the Panthers playoff position status that would immediately factor into play.

The only other limited participant was tight end Greg Olsen (foot) and wide receiver Torrey Smith (knee) was the only Carolina player not to practice at all due to an actual injury.