Cam Newton, Charles Johnson, Damiere Byrd undergoing surgery

CHARLOTTE – Quarterback Cam Newton (shoulder), defensive end Charles Johnson (back) and wide receiver Damiere Byrd (knee) are undergoing surgical procedures that will sideline them during the Panthers’ offseason practice program. All three are projected to return to action for the start of training camp.

Newton is having surgery on his throwing shoulder at Carolinas Medical Center on March 30. The injury occurred against the San Diego Chargers in Week 14 of last season. Newton finished the game, and the following week, an MRI revealed a partially torn rotator cuff.

“It is well-documented and well-researched that overhead throwing athletes commonly have wear and tear to their rotator cuffs,”…