Carolina Panthers best-case, worst-case scenario for Cam Newton injury
Carolina Panthers initial indications on Cam Newton’s foot injury are positive, but what if they’re wrong?
The worst outcome any preseason game can have is one that ends in an injury. The play calling is typically basic, points on the scoreboard don’t matter and no statistics are officially recorded. As Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton exited Gillette Stadium in a walking boot, what was feared had unfortunately become a reality.
No one will remember the score or how many passes Newton completed, but everyone will recall he was injured. For how long, will be determined by just how severe the injury winds up being. Typically starters don’t play the final preseason game so Newton was never likely to suit up next week, but if he’s still sidelined on Week 1, the preseason risk won’t outweigh any potential rewards.
Unprotected, Newton was sacked twice on eight drop backs and once had to throw the ball away to avoid taking another hit. Entering with concerns about his throwing shoulder after undergoing a second procedure in three offseasons, Newton exited with all eyes on his opposite foot.
As we await official word on the extent of his injury, following are the best-case, worst-case scenarios.
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BEST CASE
Obviously, Newton not being limited and sitting out the final preseason game but returning to full health and playing Week 1 is the best-case scenario. Initial indicators, such as a clean x-ray, were positive and Newton wasn’t on crutches leaving the stadium but he never returned to the sideline.
WORST CASE
Diagnosed as a left ankle sprain, a nagging injury that hampers Newton but allows him to play wouldn’t be rock bottom. However, a Lisfranc injury requiring surgery and Newton to miss a large chunk of the season would be devastating. While no fracture should be present with the clean x-ray being reported, ligament damage may still be present. The definition and explanation from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is troubling.
"A Lisfranc injury is often mistaken for a simple sprain, especially if the injury is a result of a straightforward twist and fall. However, injury to the Lisfranc joint is not a simple sprain that should be simply “walked off.” It is a severe injury that may take many months to heal and may require surgery to treat."
Next. Preseason Battles Heating Up. dark
As everyone waits an official diagnosis, don’t forget the Panthers have been historically vague regarding injuries, especially any that involve Newton.