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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

NFL notes: Cam Newton probable for Sunday’s key battle against Cleveland

Newton
Associated Press

Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Cam Newton will “probably” start Sunday against the Cleveland Browns barring any physical setbacks this week.

The Panthers increased the fourth-year quarterback’s workload on Thursday and Rivera said Newton seemed to handle it well.

Rivera was hesitant on naming Newton the starter in case he begins to experience soreness in his back.

“I would say he is on target,” Rivera said. “He had a good day and took the reps he was supposed to.”

Newton said he’s pain-free.

He was a full participant in practice, nine days after he was involved in a two-vehicle crash that left him hospitalized for one night with two fractures in his lower back.

“If I can play, we all know I want to play,” Newton said.

Rams will attend event

The St. Louis Rams are following through on plans to aid residents in nearby Ferguson, Missouri.

The five players who did the “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot” gesture before a recent home game are scheduled to appear at an Urban League of St. Louis Christmas Party today for residents of Ferguson and north St. Louis County.

Tight end Jared Cook and wide receivers Kenny Britt, Tavon Austin, Stedman Bailey and Chris Givens will attend after practicing for the home finale against the New York Giants on Sunday. The group is contributing $10,000 to purchase gloves, hats, socks, underwear, non-perishable food items, detergent, personal hygiene items and 200 coats that will be distributed at the event.

Manning still limited in practice

Peyton Manning is over his illness but not his injury.

Denver’s quarterback was limited when the Broncos reconvened for their first practice since their 22-10 win at San Diego on Sunday. Manning fought through the flu in that game and strained his right thigh in the first half, which he blamed on dehydration.

Manning participated in the walkthrough but retreated to the Broncos’ facility after the team stretch.

Manning didn’t appear in any discomfort afterward. He had his coloring back in his face and even jokingly referenced Bill Belichick three times when he answered reporters’ questions with a “We’re onto Cincinnati” mantra.

Around the league

The Titans placed RB Dexter McCluster on injured reserve with a knee injury. … Texans WR Andre Johnson said he’s cleared the league’s concussion protocol and expects to play on Sunday against the Ravens after missing one game. … Chargers QB Philip Rivers returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday to rest chest and back injuries. He expects to play Saturday at San Francisco.