The Panthers will finally look to get on track against the Saints Sunday, and will have last season’s NFL MVP back in the fold to help.
Today coach Ron Rivera said quarterback Cam Newton is expected to start against the New Orleans Saints “barring a setback” in his recovery from a concussion.
Newton participated fully in practice Friday, but remains in the league’s concussion protocol. Rivera said the league’s reigning MVP still has to meet with an independent doctor before being cleared to play.
Rivera also said running back Jonathan Stewart is expected to return to action after missing the last three games with a hamstring injury.
However, Carolina has other injury concerns, most notably in the secondary where it will be without both starting cornerbacks when facing Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who has thrown 27 touchdown passes in his last seven games at the Superdome.
James Bradberry (toe) and Robert McClain (hamstring) have been ruled out, along with offensive tackle Michael Oher (concussion) and defensive tackles Vernon Butler (ankle) and Paul Soliai (foot).