Report: Panthers think Newton will likely pass physical in March

The Carolina Panthers believe Cam Newton is likely to pass his physical and will be cleared for some football activity in March, a source told Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic.

Newton is continuing to recover from a Lisfranc injury to his left foot. Due to the nature of the injury, the Panthers will reportedly be cautious about his return to full-team activities, according to Rodrigue, and have discussed limiting him in early April and May workouts.

After battling a shoulder injury during the 2018 season, Newton was limited to two games in 2019 due to the Lisfranc injury. He underwent surgery in December after a failed rehabilitation that spanned months.

Panthers owner David Tepper said last week that Newton's rehab would determine Carolina's status at quarterback in 2020.

"The overwhelming No. 1 thing is to see how healthy he is, and how we can figure out when he is healthy or not," Tepper said. "Everything comes from that."

In the past two campaigns, the former MVP started 16 games (6-10), amassing 3,967 yards and 24 touchdowns against 14 interceptions. He also posted 486 yards and four scores on the ground.

Newton, 30, has one season left on his contract. The Panthers could save $19 million against the salary cap by trading or releasing him.