Even though Carolina quarterback Cam Newton said “it’s nothing to be scared about,” some doubt may soon begin to creep in about his status for Monday night’s game in Washington.
After undergoing an MRI on his throwing shoulder Tuesday, the Panthers held Newton out of passing drills for a second straight practice on Thursday.

But coach Ron Rivera said Newton, who was officially listed as limited, is still on track to start against the Redskins.

“Every day’s another step. It’s sore and we don’t want to aggravate it,” Rivera said. “We’re just following what the trainers and doctors have decided, so he will work his way back all the way up till Monday night.”

Newton complained of soreness after Sunday’s win over the Chargers, but the MRI revealed no structural damage. Rivera wouldn’t say if Newton was injured on a specific play, but Carolina’s coach did rule out the moments when referees made Derek Anderson take a snap in place of Newton after he was slow to get up after a play.