Panthers Screwed Over Cam Newton by Waiting Too Long to Make Decision About His Future
By Mark Powell
While the Panthers stewed back and forth, curious over whether he'd be able to pass a physical or if they could get any legitimate compensation for him, Cam Newton's lost just about any opportunity to start for an NFL team next year.
2020's QB carousel has already taken place, and with very few potential landing spots left for him, Newton is reportedly likely to become a free agent, and the Panthers have given up on trying to trade him.
For Carolina, it allows them a fresh start with Teddy Bridgewater and Matt Rhule. For Newton, it might force him into a backup role.
League sources said the Panthers and Cam Newton's camp are having a hard time trying to trade the former MVP.
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) March 19, 2020
Multiple sources expect he's going to be released very soon. Team won't carry both Newton and Bridgewater; latter trying to get physical taken care of. After that...
Potential trade partners, at this stage, are right not to give in to Carolina's demands. With such limited options remaining, they know that Carolina will have to cut him loose at some point, or risk paying his remaining salary while he's on the books in 2020. As much as Newton loves Carolina, his injury history makes it very tough for Rhule and the coaching staff to believe Cam can play at anything close to 100% in 2020. Bridgewater, meanwhile, has proven himself capable in several stints with the New Orleans Saints.
Per source, Cam Newton release is imminent and the 2015 MVP will likely have to wait until after the draft to find his new home.
— Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) March 19, 2020
Newton deserved better, as he poured his heart and soul into a franchise that was in transition when he arrived as the No. 1 overall pick. Now, they're discarding him like trash, and didn't even give him a chance to move on to his team of choice.