Cam Newton is getting more attention for the wrong reasons, as he declined to speak to the media Thursday. Newton did practice though and sat at his locker playing loud music after the session ended. Nobody knows why he didn't appear for his afternoon press conference with members of the media, but the NFL is looking into the situation. Newton himself didn't give anyone a reason as to why he declined to speak to the reporters. It is very unusual as he has been consistent with his media sessions all season until Thursday.
Disappearing act
Newton attended all of his media availability sessions the past two weeks after his situation with Charlotte Observer reporter Jourdan Rodrigue.
Newton made light of her question about WR Devin Funchess' routes which sparked outrage in the news world. He has since apologized and has done better during his press conferences. Rodrigue took some time off after the incident but made her return on Wednesday, when Newton usually has his press conferences. Newton didn't speak on Wednesday either.
There might be speculation that Newton is simply avoiding Rodrigue for the time being because the situation is still fresh in both of their minds. Seeing each other after a situation like that might make things a little bit awkward, especially when she is the one asking Newton the questions.
Head coach Ron Rivera was unaware of Newton's absence saying, "I thought he had a press conference today, apparently not."
Newton is walking on thin ice, as the NFL could fine the 2015 MVP for skipping media sessions.
Star players like Cam are required to be present at media sessions during the season.
Injury Report
The Panthers could be taking on the Bears without their top talents on both sides of the ball. Luke Keuchly is still going through the concussion protocol, but he is making progress as he was seen in a helmet and cleats for practice.
He didn't participate in the team portion of practice, but he did take part in some individual drills to the side. ESPN's Adam Schefter said that Panthers medical officials don't believe he suffered a concussion in the team's 28-23 loss to the Eagles. But once a player is placed in the concussion protocol he must go through it, being on the side of safety.
Kelvin Benjamin left Panthers practice Wednesday with a left knee injury. Benjamin missed practice for a second straight day after there was swelling in his knee. This is the same knee that was surgically repaired in 2015 because of an ACL tear. Rivera said if there isn't any progress by Friday he will make a roster move, moving Funchess to the "X" spot. This would mean that Benjamin would likely be ruled out for Sunday's game.
