SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On the final day of training camp, quarterback Cam Newton threw in a team period for the first time in two weeks.
During team work in the red zone – a position on the field that naturally limits the length of passes – Newton delivered throws on four consecutive snaps. He last threw to teammates in an 11-on-11 situation on July 30, when in the fifth practice of camp he threw in the first period but then backed off.
"Today was a good step. It was very positive," head coach Ron Rivera said. "A lot of good things happened. I'm really pleased with his progress."
Newton, making his way back from offseason surgery on his throwing shoulder, participated fully in Carolina's first four training camp practices before taking a break to recover from some soreness. After nearly a week without throwing, Newton threw passes to head athletic trainer Ryan Vermillion on the side for a couple of practices.
He then tossed some passes to injured rookie receiver Curtis Samuel the day before the Panthers headed back to Charlotte for Wednesday's preseason opener. When the team returned to the Wofford practice fields Friday, Newton threw in individual drills for the first time since July 30.
Newton took Saturday off from throwing - as was the part of the plan according to Rivera - then he took another step forward Sunday.
"It's like I told you guys, it's just a matter of time," Rivera said. "We're going to do what the trainers and doctors say we can do with him to get him ready for the season."
