National Football League

Panthers QB Cam Newton inactive against Bucs with rib injury

Published Sep. 7, 2014 12:11 p.m. ET

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The Carolina Panthers will be without quarterback Cam Newton on Sunday, the team announced. NFL insider Jay Glazer first reported on FOX NFL Sunday that the plan was to hold out Newton to prevent further injury.

The Panthers, who will kick off their season at 4:25 p.m. ET against the Tampa Bay Buccaneeers, are hoping that the additional time will allow Newton's fractured rib to heal correctly. Also, there is fear that if Newton takes a shot he could be out three to four weeks.

Newton will be replaced by veteran quarterback Derek Anderson.

Newton sustained a hairline fracture in his ribs against the New England Patriots in the third week of the preseason. While limited in practice during the week, Newton had full participation on Friday.

"I'm not going to put my team in jeopardy or put myself in jeopardy to make matters worse,'' Newton told reporters on Thursday.

While Newton has never missed a game in his college or pro career, the Panthers are taking a cautious approach with their franchise quarterback.

Newton spent the offseason rehabbing an ankle injury, which he had surgically repaired.

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