Newton out of Panthers’ preseason opener

SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WOLO) – Cam Newton will not play in the Panthers’ preseason opener Wednesday night in Charlotte against Houston.

Head coach Ron Rivera made the announcement on his quarterback’s status following Tuesday’s practice at Wofford. The seven-year pro and 2015 NFL MVP will be on the “inactive” list.

Newton had surgery on his partially torn right rotator cuff at the end of March and has yet to participate in throwing drills during camp.

Newton isn’t expected to miss any of the regular season, but there’s been no word as to when he will officially return to game action.