Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera believes that quarterback Cam Newton could benefit from being off the field during part of his side's off-season.

Newton underwent surgery on his ankle in March which is expected to keep him out of action for another two months, and his coach believes that it will enable the 24-year-old to learn more about the game.

"He's going to get a different perspective on preparation, a different perspective on learning," Rivera told reporters.

"He'll sit back and he'll watch things. And he'll be called upon to talk to the guys as they're doing things. He's going to have to develop that rapport with our offense from a different perspective."

Newton threw for 3,379 yards along with 24 touchdowns to 13 interceptions in the 2013 season.