Carolina Panthers: Why a Newton/Rivera reunion makes sense
By Dean Jones
Former Carolina Panthers quarterback has been linked with a move to the Washington Redskins, which would reunite him with ex-coach Ron Rivera.
It appears former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton could be the next domino to fall in the free-agent merry-go-round following the 2020 NFL Draft.
The 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player was released by the Panthers earlier this offseason after a glittering spell with the franchise. Newton’s influence on the franchise cannot be underestimated after he was taken No. 1 overall out of Auburn in 2011.
There is little doubt Newton can still play to a Pro Bowl level when healthy. However, a series of niggling concerns over the last two seasons have not done his chances any good and this was the primary reason behind his departure.
Former head coach Ron Rivera knows what Newton brings to the table. He was the one that brought him into the NFL and masterminded his exceptional rise to superstardom.
Rivera did not rule out a reunion between the two with the Redskins earlier this week. But whether this comes to fruition remains to be seen whether such a bold move will eventually occur.
If Newton were to land in Washington, he would be competing with ex-Panther Kyle Allen and first-round pick Dwayne Haskins for time on the field. There is also the situation regarding Alex Smith to consider, who has not given up a return to the field despite suffering a horrific leg injury last term.
The Redskins also signed undrafted free agent quarterback Steven Montez, who does have some ability. But he is seen more of a development project and if Rivera wants to make an instant impression then he should consider moving for Newton.