Gross broke tibia, fibula, not ankle, but expects full recovery

Panthers left tackle Jordan Gross is making his first visit with teammates at Bank of America Stadium today since his season-ending injury.

Though the team at first said he'd suffered a broken ankle, Gross said he actually suffered a broken tibia and fibula just above the ankle in his right leg. He said it was a clean break and that team orthopedists Drs. Bob Anderson and Pat Connor inserted titanimum plates, rods and screws to secure the ankle.

In his first interview with reporters since the injury, Gross said he has been assured he'll full recover and that his lower leg actually will be stronger than before because of the extra support.

Gross was blocking Atlanta defensive end John Abraham when another Falcons player fell on his leg, causing a loud pop that Gross and other players heard.

"They said I didn't scream too bad, so maybe I improved my street cred a little," Gross joked.

He seemed in good spirits and said he's looking forward to beginning his rehabilitation soon. He's in a cast now, which will come off in about a week and be replaced by a boot cast. He said he'll be on crutches for six weeks.

-- Charles Chandler