The Carolina Panthers are bringing back Cam Newton to where it all began, but can he lead them to the postseason?
The Panthers started the season a misleading 3-0, with wins over the Jets, Texans and Saints. However, since then, they have fallen to 4-5, and are last place in the NFC South.
Sam Darnold is out long-term, and with only P.J. Walker to back him up, the Panthers had to make a move at the quarterback position. So why not bring back a familiar face?
Carolina signed Cam Newton on Thursday — their former No. 1 overall pick quarterback. Newton had been lingering in free agency for nine weeks since he was replaced by Mac Jones for the New England Patriots in the preseason.
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Cam Newton: Teams he played for
Newton has only played for the Patriots and Panthers at this juncture, and assuming he answers any long-term questions at quarterback for Carolina, could linger in Charlotte at least for the next season-plus.
Did Cam Newton get signed?
Yes, Newton is heading to Carolina for a reunion. Whether that makes them a playoff contender remains to be seen.
While the NFC added a playoff spot for the 2021 season, the Panthers would have to jump several teams in their own division. The NFC is crowded, and the Panthers could be on the outside looking in if Newton cannot adjust to Matt Rhule’s offense, and fast.
How much did Cam Newton sign for?
Newton’s contract details are below, per Adam Schefter.
Cam Newton contract terms: Up to $10M for rest of year, includes $4.5M fully guaranteed + $1.5M Roster Bonus, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 11, 2021
Panthers depth chart: Quarterback
Where does Newton rank on the depth chart? Considering it’s past the midway point in the week, Newton will have to prove himself on the practice field should he start right away.
For now, Walker and Matt Barkley are the only other quarterbacks on the depth chart. Odds are, Newton has the immediate advantage.
Cam Newton contracts
Newton’s contract likely only runs until the end of the season. After a quick workout, however, the Panthers liked what they saw, and signed Newton to a one-year deal.
Newton’s contract history can be found on spotrac.
Cam Newton fantasy outlook 2021
Unless your team is really, really desperate for quarterback help, odds are you should wait a week before signing Newton to your squad.
Why did Cam Newton get cut by the Patriots?
Newton was sidelined with COVID-19 related symptoms and failed to offer much competition with Mac Jones for the quarterback job.
Sam Darnold injury
Darnold is out long-term, as he was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. That opened the door for the Panthers to sign Newton.
