Carolina Panthers: Matt Rhule deal offers Cam Newton flexibility
The future of Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton remains up in the air.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton played just two games last season before being sidelined with a Lisfranc foot injury. The latest in a string of incidents limiting his opportunities, a cloud of uncertainty has settled over Carolina as the team continues to trend in a new direction despite a year remaining on the former number one overall pick’s current contract.
Linebacker Luke Kuechly abruptedly announced his retirement earlier in the offseason and the Panthers most recently disclosed tight end Greg Olsen would be entering the free agent market. Unexpected or not, these actions open various opportunities for younger talent across the roster but all eyes are and have been on exactly what general manager Marty Hurney, owner David Tepper and new coach Matt Rhule decide about Newton’s future.
A March trade rumor is gaining steam but exactly what Carolina could get in return for their franchise quarterback remains to be seen. In addition, the team has shied away from publicly backing Newton likely in an effort to not influence any potential deals and keep all available options on the table.
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The structure of Rhule’s new contract also offers some flexibility to the team. Depending on exactly what type of trade package is rendered, where Carolina may ultimately pick on draft day and who else is available to be the starting quarterback in 2020 for the Panthers, will each play into the end result.
Rhule signed a seven-year deal as Tepper skyrocketed both the current asking price and length of contracts for new NFL coaches. However, in so doing he also has granted the former coach of the Baylor Bears an opportunity to develop his own team and system.
If the Panthers elect to extend Newton, expectations are it would be for only a short time. This would grant Rhule an opportunity to work with him as Newton attempts to prove he can still play at a high level and both to determine the most appropriate paths for their respective futures. Opposite, if Rhule and the Panthers can land who they believe to be the best quarterback option moving forward, then expect them to execute that plan this year.
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A lot of uncertainty remains but Tepper appears to always be operating with a plan in place and answers should be coming soon.