Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis is the only player on the roster coach Ron Rivera has concern about regarding his status for Super Bowl 50.
Thomas had surgery Monday to repair a broken right forearm. He said he will do “anything possible” to play Feb. 7 against the Denver Broncos. His practice repetitions are likely to be limited, but Rivera echoed Thomas’ intention when he said “I’m not doubting Thomas.”
The 11-year veteran knows all about fighting through injuries. He’s overcome three separate reconstructive knee surgeries because of a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Davis was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2015, an honor he and his nine Panthers teammates had to bypass to prepare for the Super Bowl.
Davis made it clear the Panthers’ season is meaningless without a win in the 19th game of the season. Carolina would become only the fourth team in NFL history to win 18 games after going 15-1 in the regular season.
“It’s very gratifying, but it means nothing if we can’t win in the playoffs,” Davis said.
Strong safety Roman Harper left the NFC Championship game with an eye injury but will be ready to go, Rivera said. Running back Jonathan Stewart’s sore foot is not an issue. He rested Wednesday because of a scheduled “veteran day.”