Newton a full practice participant, still in concussion protocol

Cam Newton has taken another significant step in his recovery from a Week 4 concussion, with full participation in Thursday's team practice session.

Newton was a limited participant in practice Wednesday.

Head coach Ron River told reporters Newton is still in the concussion protocol and needs to be cleared by an independent neurologist to be available Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

Though there's no way to predict whether he'll receive clearance, all indications are that he's on track to do so.

Newton suiting up after being forced to sit out Monday's loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would make for a substantial boost for a struggling Panthers team in need of it.

Carolina enters Week 6 at 1-4 and in last place in the NFC South, despite returning the majority of a roster that led the way to a 2015 Super Bowl appearance.