Cam Newton: Availability for Sunday

After missing Monday night’s dismal loss to Tampa Bay, will Cam Newton be available against the Saints on Sunday?

When quarterback Cam Newton pulled-up on the goal line of a successful two-point conversion attempt, Falcons linebacker Deion Jones attempted to level the reigning MVP, rendering him with a concussion. Newton exited the game after lying with his face down for a few seconds and did not return.

Following the game, Panthers’ head coach Ron Rivera had no ill will toward Atlanta, saying he would have done the same. “Well to me, because as a defensive player, you see the guy coming to the goal line and your estimation if he hasn’t crossed it yet, you’re gonna pull the trigger, and I think that’s what the young man did,” Rivera told reporters on Monday, via NFL.com.

While Newton has progressed through some of the initial stages of the protocol, he was noticeably absent from the stadium on Monday night and may not return for the game this Sunday. However, he was spotted riding a segway in uptown Charlotte and everyone, critics and fans alike, is weighing in on his decision.

Cam Newton progressing well from concussion. Proof:
Cam on a Segway-like scooter today in downtown Charlotte. pic.twitter.com/3mQESjzNeE

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 11, 2016

Rivera offered his comments in support of the franchise quarterback, Cam Newton: “I’m not going to worry about that,” Rivera said Tuesday. “The bottom line is he’s an adult. We’ll go from there.”

While Newton has participated in some football activity, running and throwing, his availability remains up in the air even if he is limited at practice on Wednesday. For example, left tackle Michael Oher entered the concussion protocol on Friday, September 30th, having now missed two games and 11 days.

Last season, linebacker Luke Kuechly suffered a concussion during the first half of the season opener and wouldn’t return to action until five weeks later. Dealing with concussions, the time table varies for multiple reasons, but Newton definitely will not play until he is cleared by both the team physician and an independent neurological consultant.

The Carolina Panthers bye week is following Sunday’s game in New Orleans, which could weigh into the decision making process. Cam Newton returns knowing he has a week off following or rest him until completely healed with two more weeks. Like it or not, fans shouldn’t be expecting the return of Superman anytime soon.