By Kevin Patra NFL.com
Around the NFL Writer
Published: Aug. 23, 2019 at 11:32 a.m.
Updated: Aug. 23, 2019 at 11:47 a.m.
The
Carolina Panthers hope
Cam Newton, who left Thursday's preseason game against the
New England Patriots in a walking boot, is ready for the regular season.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that after an X-Ray and other tests, the quarterback was diagnosed with a mid-foot sprain in his left foot. General manager Marty Hurney told Rapoport the team is "cautiously optimistic" that Newton will be ready for Week 1 against the
Los Angeles Rams.
Making his first preseason appearance, Newton limped to the sideline after taking a sack on his third series. After getting his left foot examined at the training table, the signal-caller was escorted to the locker room. He was seen after the game in a walking boot, likely as a precaution.
It's been an offseason of questions surrounding the former NFL MVP who is coming off another shoulder surgery. Newton's throwing motion looked good Thursday night, but now the
Panthersare dealing with a lower-body injury to their most vital player.
The hope is that Newton will be ready in a fortnight to start a pivotal campaign in Carolina for coach Ron Rivera. If the starter isn't fully healed, it could spell trouble for the
Panthers. Second-year pro
Kyle Allen, who has made one NFL start, has been the backup quarterback this preseason ahead of third-round rookie
Will Grier and
Taylor Heinicke.
