Report: Panthers' Cam Newton will start Sunday vs. Browns

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton will make his return to the starting lineup in Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns.

Newton missed last week's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being involved in a car accident that caused two small fractures in his back. The quarterback has now cleared the final medical hurdle to get back on the field, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

With the Panthers just a half game out of first place in the NFC South, Newton's return will be key to the team's chances of qualifying for the playoffs down the stretch.

The fourth-year pro has thrown for 2,812 yards and 16 touchdowns, while also tallying another 425 yards and three scores on the ground.