Carolina Panthers: Which 4 teams are favored to land Cam Newton?

1. New England Patriots (4/1)

The long-standing favorites to sign former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton this offseason have been the New England Patriots. Although this is something that the organization has so far not been willing to commit on.

This might have a lot to do with Newton’s injury history. But Bill Belichick is renowned for his stubborn methods and if he feels like he can win with Brian Hoyer or Jarrett Stidham under center, then that is the way New England is going to go.

It is hard to deny that Newton doesn’t represent an immense upgrade on these two options. And there is a need for the Patriots to keep the momentum going despite losing legendary quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski to the Panthers’ NFC South rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

This has left others in the AFC East salivating at the prospect of finally knocking Belichick off his perch. But bringing Newton is would instantly change their outlook going forward.

One possible stumbling block in any potential deal is offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The coach reportedly wasn’t sold on Newton as a starting quarterback when he interviewed for Carolina’s head coaching vacancy earlier this year. And it is unlikely he would give his seal of approval if the Patriots were considering making such a move.

At the end of the day, the decision will come down to what Belichick wants. And although they might appear to be Newton’s most likely destination. One suspects this is something not in their plans.