Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was back at practice on Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. He was limited, only participating in handoffs. After practice, Newton hinted that he might not be available for Sunday's season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Cam Newton limited in practice Thursday; fantasy status suddenly looking grim
Newton remained limited in practice on Thursday and hinted that he might not play on Sunday after all. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Newton: I don't want to put this team in jeopardy (if I'm not ready).
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) September 4, 2014 Newton is working his way back from a hairline rib fracture suffered in the preseason. He plans on wearing a flak jacket if he suits up on Sunday. The Panthers have been adamant that Newton will play, but his latest comments cast some doubt on the situation.
Fantasy impact: Newton could still end up playing, but it’s now less than 100 percent certain and fantasy owners should start looking for Plan B this week. He hasn’t missed a single game in three seasons, but that streak looks to be in jeopardy. We should know more about his status after Friday’s injury reports are released. Newton will be a QB2 if he’s able to play.
