Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is listed as questionable for the season opener against the 49ers because “probable” is no longer an allowable option.
"The only reason he's listed as questionable is because that's what the form says," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Friday during his briefing with the Carolina media.
"I'm telling you guys I believe the guy is ready to roll. I really do mean it. I'm pretty confident in his abilities and hopefully things will fall into place nicely for us on Sunday."
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
Newton underwent surgery on his right shoulder in late-March. He went about three months without throwing. He attempted only two passes during the Panthers’ exhibition season.
But Newton went through a full week of practice without any limitations in preparation to face the 49ers at Levi’s Stadium.
“I expect him to be Cam,” 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said on Thursday. “I’m sure he’s 100 percent and he’s going to be rolling like he normally does.”
The NFL last year removed “probable” as an option on the official injury reports. The only designations are “questionable,” “doubtful” and “out.”
