Panthers QB Newton in line to start Thursday

Aug 22, 2017 - 4:59 PM Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is on track to start the team's upcoming preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, coach Ron Rivera told reporters on Tuesday.

Rivera plans to make a final decision for Thursday's game on Wednesday, per multiple reports.

Newton has yet to dress for a preseason game as he works his way back from a surgically repaired shoulder. The 2015 NFL MVP has participated in team drills on both Monday and Tuesday.

"You could see the timing coming back," Rivera said, per ESPN.

Newton had surgery on March 30 to repair a partially torn rotator cuff that was expected to require a four-month rehab process.

The 28-year-old Newton's injury occurred in the Panthers' Week 14 game against the then-San Diego Chargers last season. He played in each of the team's remaining three games and underwent offseason MRI exams to monitor his progress before deciding on surgery.

Newton passed for 3,509 yards with 19 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 15 games last season for the Panthers, who missed the playoffs after finishing last in the NFC South with a 6-10 record.