TRANSCRIPT

Question: How do the ribs feel?

Newton: It feel great. Everyday is an opportunity to get better. My body feels better. It’s been a great process and today is no different. I’m excited to see those guys play tomorrow and see this whole team form into what the 2014 Panthers are going to be about.

Question: The first day, were you having trouble even breathing?

Newton: It was just soreness like any other injury. It’s obvious that my ribs were hurting, but I’m moving forward trying to stay positive and optimistic about this whole process. It’s given me even a great focus on trying to heal my ankle at the same time.

Question: Do you have any doubt you’ll be in the starting lineup in Week 1?

Newton: There’s no doubt in my mind. Like I said, I’m just going to worry about the things I can control. I’m going to continue to come in and get as much treatment as possible so my body will be 100 percent.

Question: Was it one rib or two ribs?

Newton: It was ribs. It was hurting, but it’s ok now. My thing is this: be the best teammate I can be as possible. Make my body as comfortable as possible, so when I’m called upon during game time, there won’t be nothing to be held back.”

Question: You said the ribs felt ‘great.’ Do they actually feel great?

Newton: You think I would lie to you guys? (laughs) No lying by me. I’m being honest. My main focus each and every day is to get better. I have an obligation to uphold with this team. Being one of the leaders on this team, I come in and try to impact this team as much as possible with whatever is expected or asked of me. Whether it’s treating my body, that’s what it’s going to be. If it’s talking to the rookies, getting lectured by myself, my coaches. I’m doing whatever I need to do.

Question: You had pads on today, was that to get back into the feel of it?

Newton: I wanted to do something that I’ve always done at least one time a week, put on pads. There’s no precautionary reasons. Just putting my pads on just to put them on. Somewhat of a superstitious thing.

Question: How much of a setback is this for you getting ready for the opener?

Newton: No setback at all. Like I said, I’m going to control the things I can control. Each day brings me more confidence that I’m getting closer to 100 percent.

Question: Last week you said you’re not a sliding-type of guy. Is that philosophy about to change?

Newton: That’s crazy, cause after you guys asked me that question, I kept thinking about that on the bus ride from the stadium to the airport. I’m like, ‘dang, they sure did just ask me this question.’ But I am who I am and things do happen. One thing you know playing this game is you will get hurt sooner or later. That’s not something to be encouraged about, whether it’s soreness, broken bones, turf toe, hangnail, splinter, doesn’t matter. You know something’s going to happen. This is a physical sport and needs to be played that way.

Question: Will you wear a specially-designed type of flak jacket?

Newton: Nothing’s different than the obvious that I hurt the rib section of my body. The pads that I’ve had have been nicked to a degree, but nothing to the extent that it’ll change my playing style or to make me feel uncomfortable.

Question: So you aren’t going to change your sliding style?

Newton: I guess we will all just have to stay tuned and see.

Question: Was that the most pain you’ve ever had on the field?

Newton: Absolutely not.

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