The Panthers announced following the operation by surgeon Pat Connor that a rehabilitation plan under which Newton will not be cleared to throw a football for at least 12 weeks and will be unable to throw during team drills for at least 16 weeks.

«Dr Connor was pleased with the results of the surgery and Cam is at home resting,» Panthers trainer Ryan Vermillion said. «He will begin his rehab program Monday.»

Newton, whose Panthers lost to Denver in Super Bowl 50 last year, injured his shoulder against San Diego last December. First tests did not reveal the injury but as issues continued, an MRI showed the torn rotator cuff.

The Panthers are hoping the 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player will be ready for training camp in late July and Panthers coach Ron Rivera hopes Newton returns to top form.

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