CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Panthers coach Ron Rivera says quarterback Cam Newton has been selected by his teammates as co-captain for the first time in his NFL career.
Rivera announced the news prior to Thursday's practice.
Linebacker Luke Kuechly, last year's AP defensive rookie of the year, linebacker Thomas Davis, wide receiver Steve Smith and offensive linemen Jordan Gross and Ryan Kalil were also selected as co-captains.
In Newton's first two seasons, the Panthers selected only two offensive captains and those honors went to Smith and Gross.
Newton said during training camp one of his goals was to earn the honor of captain from his teammates, saying "when you're a team captain that's not just a patch on the jersey. You're holding yourself to a higher standard with being accountable."
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