CHARLOTTE – Quarterback Cam Newton took another step forward Monday, taking part in every drill, including 7-on-7 and team work ahead of Thursday's preseason game at Jacksonville.
It was the most extensive work for Newton since the first week of training camp, before shoulder soreness limited his involvement. And late in practice, Newton uncorked a deep pass, which is something the Panthers have mostly held in check following his offseason shoulder surgery.
"The big key for us will be how he feels in the morning, just to make sure there is nothing sore or tight," head coach Ron Rivera said. "But he looked really good."
Soreness is one thing, but Newton also has to shake off the rust after missing a good portion of training camp and sitting out the first two preseason games.
"He and I talked at the end of practice, and the one thing he told me is he just still feels like his timing off and he's a little slow with his decision making," Rivera said. "It will be, with him, (about) the reps. As long as he's getting quality reps and we're not overusing him, I think he's going to be fine. We'll see how he is tomorrow and go from there."
