Cam Newton to start Sunday barring setback

Cam Newton is poised to return on Sunday barring a late setback.

Carolina coach Ron Rivera said that Newton still needs clearance from an independent physician, but he has been a full practice participant for the last two days and the team is very confident he’ll be able to start at New Orleans. That physician checkup will take place on Friday, according to ESPN’s David Newton.

Newton has not played since Week 4, when he was knocked out of the game against the Atlanta Falcons on a two-point attempt.

Carolina needs Newton now more than ever. They’re 1-4 and in serious danger of falling too far behind in the NFC playoff race to salvage anything. We will see if the quarterback plays any different, as some reportedly want him to, or if he keeps playing as he always has.