Cam Newton has been released from the Carolinas Medical Center on Wednesday morning, nearly 24 hours after a car crash near the Panthers stadium left fans worried about his physical condition. Despite the fact that the extent of his injury has been downplayed, inside sources say he is unlikely to play in the match against Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.

The Cam Newton crash with an unidentified driver has left the player with two transverse process fractures in his lower back. The spokesman for the Carolina Panthers Charlie Dayton said Cam Newton would commence his recuperation process today. It is unclear when the player would be fit to go back to the field.

Commentators have pointed out that it doesn't usually take long for players with transverse process fractures to be healed. Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys had a similar injury and only sat one game out. Nonetheless, it is important to note that Cam Newton has two of these fractures. Dayton said he will be observed on a day-to-day basis to assess his recovery.

Meanwhile, Charlotte police have opened an investigation into the Cam Newton crash. Reports indicate that neither the player nor the other driver involved in the crash have been charged. Police reports indicate that Cam Newton was driving at about 35 mph before his truck hit a Buick car that pulled out in front of him.  Officials say his car was flipped at least three times. It is unclear what the physical condition of the other driver is like. Initial reports said both men who were involved in the accident were in critical condition.

If you remember, Cam Newton missed the Panthers earlier game with the Buccaneers earlier in the season with a hairline rib fracture. In that game, which was Derek Anderson's first start for the Panthers, he made an impressive record of making 2 touchdowns, completing 24/34 passes, and covering 230 yards. The Panthers won the game by 20-14.

Now, with Cam Newton likely ruled out of the highly anticipated encounter with the Bucs, all eyes are on Anderson to make a repeat performance of this memorable game.