Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton has two transverse process fractures in his lower back after a car accident on Tuesday in Charlotte, the team announced. The Charlotte Observer first reported the news of the accident.
The Panthers added that Newton is in fair condition and will remain in the hospital overnight. ESPN’s Ed Werder reports that early tests show no serious injuries for Newton. The team also said Newton had “no further internal injuries.”
Panthers owner Jerry Richardson visited Newton and told the Observer‘s Joe Person that “he’s in good shape.” It’s unclear if he will play in Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If he misses the contest, backup Derek Anderson would get the start.
From the Observer:
Team officials had no comment on Newton’s football-related status but were privately doubtful he could play in Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay.
Panthers officials expressed relief that Newton hadn’t been more badly hurt considering the significant damage to his truck.
According to the Observer‘s report, a car crashed and overturned on a bridge at 12:30 p.m. ET near Bank of America stadium. A newspaper photographer who was at the scene said Newton was involved in the wreck and was taken by ambulance to a hospital at 12:50 p.m. ET.
A Charlotte police officer told the Observer that Newton was a driver in one of the vehicles involved in the accident.
Newton, the No. 1 pick in the 2011 NFL draft, has played for the Panthers for the past four seasons. He has thrown for 2,812 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions this season.
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