Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton has said that the bonding time with his new set of receivers will start now.
The Panthers have undergone a radical shakeup during the off-season, with Jerricho Cotchery, Jason Avant and Tiquan Underwood replacing Domenik Hixon, Ted Ginn Jr, Brandon LaFell and all-time leading receiver Steve Smith on the roster.
Newton was unable to participate in the team's first meeting yesterday due to an ankle injury, but he was keen to build a relationship with his new teammates despite being disappointed at not being out on the field with them.
"With our first meeting out there yesterday, to see everybody split up, I felt like that lost kid that was in detention and can't go to recess," Newton told reporters.
"I was looking at those guys helplessly walking back to the training room. It's all for a good cause. I need to get 100% for myself, but my production as far as how I can get better does not stop.
"The bonding starts now. These days are very important, especially with my limitations as far as trying to graduate school and trying to make the most of my situation. The team is doing great. The turnout has been good. We hope to see 100% turnout by the end of OTAs."
Newton threw for 3,379 yards and 24 touchdowns last season as the Panthers finished top of the NFC South.
