Cam Newton Benched For Panthers’ First Drive After Dress Code Violation

Cam Newton’s difficult 2016 season took another bad turn Sunday night shortly before his Carolina Panthers took on the Seahawks in Seattle.

UPDATE (Monday, Dec. 5 at 12:05 a.m. ET): Panthers head coach Ron Rivera told reporters after the game, as seen on “SportsCenter,” that Newton was benched for the first series because he violated the team’s dress code. Newton’s dress code violation, according to reports, stemmed from him not wearing a tie.

ORIGINAL STORY: Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera decided not to start the reigning NFL MVP on Sunday night in Seattle. Backup quarterback Derek Anderson started the game instead and threw an interception on the team’s first play from scrimmage.

Newton entered the game for Carolina’s second offensive possession of the first quarter.

The Panthers radio broadcast provided an explanation for Newton not starting, but the team has yet to officially comment on a specific reason.

According to Panthers radio, Cam Newton will not be starting tonight due to disciplinary reasons. Must have happened pre-game.

— Adam Johnson™ (@TigerPanthrHeat) December 5, 2016

Panthers spokesman says Cam Newton is healthy — and this is a coach's decision. Nothing further at this point.

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) December 5, 2016