CHARLOTTE, N.C. — All-Pro linebacker Thomas Davis said he broke his right forearm in the Carolina Panthers’ 49-15 win over the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC championship game, but said he still plans to play in the Super Bowl.
"It hurt. It was painful," Davis said. "At the same time I believe in our training staff and I believe in the process. If it is at all possible I know they are going to get me back and I will do my part to make sure I’m ready."
Davis left the game in the second quarter with six tackles — including two for a loss. He did not return. He was seen on the sideline with his arm in a sling, but was not wearing it in the locker room after the game.
Davis is one of the toughest players in the NFL, overcoming three torn ACLs to the same knee to become an All-Pro this season.
"I believe in me," Davis said. "This is something that if it comes down to a pain tolerance and playing through it, I will be there. I guarantee to you."
Davis hurt his right arm with 7:28 left in the second quarter when he hit Darren Fells with his right shoulder as Fells jumped into him after a catch. Davis headed to the sideline with trainers holding his right arm, then went to the locker room.
Defensive tackle Kawann Short said if anyone can make it back it would be Davis.
"I don’t put it past Thomas," Short said. "Three ACLs. Broken fingers. It hasn’t stopped him yet. You will have to take his jerseys away from him — all five them, even the ones at home. — to before he sits out this game."
Safety Roman Harper also left the game with an eye injury.
Arizona lost reserve defensive tackle Josh Mauro in the first half to a right calf injury.
