Ex-Carolina Panthers teammate expects “big things” for Cam Newton
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton gets high praise from former teammate.
One year ago the Carolina Panthers appeared poised to contend with the New Orleans Saints in the NFC South, even after being swept in three games during the previous season. Throughout preseason play quarterback Cam Newton was limited but once Week 1 arrived the entire team hit the ground running.
An early loss to divisional rival Atlanta hurt but by midseason Carolina was 6-2 and firmly in the driver’s seat. Four divisional games remained, including two against New Orleans and if the Panthers held their momentum then an exciting stretch run through the second half of the schedule was on deck. Unfortunately, Newton’s shoulder slowly deteriorated and his ability to throw the football down the field suffered significantly. Ultimately, he was shut down completely for the final two games as the Panthers were eliminated from playoff contention.
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Then teammate Captain Munnerlyn had a front row seat to the decline, losing seven straight and seeing his time in Carolina come to an end. Released during the offseason, Munnerlyn recently signed with the Buffalo Bills and reunited with Newton and the Panthers this week for joint practices ahead of their preseason contest.
According to Panthers reporter Bill Voth, the former teammate offered high praise of Newton after seeing him perform during day one of the practices. Munnerlyn said Newton looked “a whole lot better” before wishing him luck and projecting, “big things for him” this season.
Due to scheduling, the Panthers and Bills would only meet again in the Super Bowl, so neither needs to worry about giving away any secrets during these combined practices or gaining an advantage for the regular season. Newton may not even play in the actual game this week, especially after getting an opportunity to go against another team in practice, but if he does – it likely wouldn’t be for more than a series.
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The Panthers and Bills are scheduled to kickoff on Friday, August 16 at 7:00pm ET.