Cam Newton participated in full pads at practice on Wednesday, a welcome sign for a Carolina Panthers team expecting the Pro Bowl quarterback to make his season debut Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
Despite Newton's absence, the Panthers emerged victorious in their Week 1 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with backup Derek Anderson completing 24-of-34 passes for 230 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
The 25-year-old quarterback suffered a rib injury during a preseason game against the New England Patriots.
