What to expect in Cam Newton's first start of the preseason

JACKSONVILLE, Florida (WTVD) -- Cam Newton will start at quarterback for the Carolina Panthers Thursday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Newton threw passes in practice on Monday and Tuesday of this week.

What to expect?

Will the timing with his receivers be there? That's something to watch for in the game.

Something else to watch for is how far will Newton throw downfield, and how many passes he throws.

Newton is coming off shoulder surgery in March after he sustained the injury last December.

It's the 3rd preseason game, aka, the dress rehearsal game. The starters will probably play into the 3rd quarter, or maybe a series into the 2nd half.

Don't expect Newton to be one of those playing past halftime.

Panthers rookie receiver Curtis Samuel will make his debut Thursday night in Jacksonville as well.

Samuel suffered a strained hamstring injury in training camp. Samuel returned to this week to take part in team drills.

The Panthers are coming off a 34-27 loss to the Tennessee Titans last Saturday.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have decisions to make at quarterback.

Chad Henne will start at quarterback for the Jaguars instead of starter Blake Bortles.

Also, rookie running back, 4th overall pick, Leonard Fournette will not play due to a foot injury.

Fournette did not play against Tampa Bay last week.

You can catch the game on ABC11 at 7:30.