Cam Newton: 'I'm just thankful that I have breath in my lungs'

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton addressed the media on Thursday for the first time since being involved in a car accident near Bank of America Stadium. The incident, which took place at approximately 12:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, left Newton with two transverse process fractures in his lower back.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newtonaddressed the media on Thursday for the first time since being involved in a car accident near Bank of America Stadium.

The incident, which took place at approximately 12:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, left Newton with two transverse process fractures in his lower back.

Newton was released from the hospital on Wednesday after the team said he had suffered "no further internal injuries."

He reported to the team's facility on Thursday for treatment and team meetings, according to a report from the Charlotte Observer.

"I'm on somebody's fantasy league, and I think it's the man upstairs," said Newton, who wore a blue hoodie and leaned on the podium during his seven-minute press conference.

"As far as when I'm coming back, who cares?" Newton said. "I'm just thankful that I have breath in my lungs."

Derek Andersonwill replace Newton in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Over 12 games this season, Newton has passed for 2,812 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while adding 425 yards and three scores on the ground.

The 25-year-old is in his fourth season in Carolina after being selected with the No. 1 pick in the 2011 draft.