Carolina Panthers: Expected Teddy Bridgewater signing signals seismic shift
The Carolina Panthers are expected to sign quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
Speculation, rumors, misinformation – questions about health, all were talking points for the Carolina Panthers organization amid a coaching change and the future of quarterback Cam Newton. Ultimately, it appears there is an apparent long-term plan in place for the franchise that doesn’t include it’s most dynamic player.
Newton was drafted first overall in 2011 and alongside coach Ron Rivera led the Panthers through their most successful string of seasons in history. Multiple playoff appearances, divisional titles and a trip to the Super Bowl highlighted this past decade. However, injuries plagued Newton’s last two seasons and after already appearing motivated for a full return – you can bet he’s more determined than ever to prove the haters (who have always existed, regardless of production) wrong now.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, New Orleans Saints backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is finalizing a deal in Carolina. Bridgewater successfully navigated the Saints through Drew Brees‘ absence last season, going undefeated (5-0) while tossing nine touchdowns and just two interceptions.
More from Cat Crave
- 4 legacy-defining moments of Carolina Panthers founder Jerry Richardson
- 3 reasons the Carolina Panthers won’t trade for Aaron Rodgers in 2023
- Dan Orlovsky’s temptation signifies Carolina Panthers ambition
- 5 early cap casualties the Carolina Panthers could target in 2023
- 4 major observations from Panthers GM Scott Fitterer’s combine presser
A Pro Bowl caliber quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings in 2015, Bridgewater suffered a non-contact injury during practice preceding the 2016 season and spent 19 months in rehabilitation from a torn ACL and other structural damage to his left leg.
Bouncing around from Minnesota to New York (Jets) and finally landing in New Orleans, Bridgewater spent time with new Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady, where he served time as an assistant in his only other professional experience.
After granting Newton permission to seek a trade, which may not have been requested, it becomes apparent significant changes are unfolding for the Panthers. Having already lost linebacker Luke Kuechly to retirement and tight end Greg Olsen to free agency, the future now belongs to Bridgewater.
Next. Latest Mock Draft Projection. dark
With Kyle Allen and Will Grier already under contract, expectations are if Bridgewater is indeed signed – nothing is official until the new league year begins tomorrow (3/18) – the quarterback position may be set for 2020.