Carolina Panthers: Why Cam Newton’s move is not about the money
By Dean Jones
Why former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton’s move to the New England Patriots is not about the money.
Cam Newton might have found a new home following his release by the Carolina Panthers. But this hasn’t come with much in the way of money.
The 2015 NFL MVP signed a one-year deal with the New England Patriots that is reportedly only coming with $550,000 guaranteed. There is a chance that the former face of the Carolina Panthers can make up to $7.5 million if he reaches his targets. But this is a far cry from the cash he has made throughout his career so far.
Once the news regarding Newton’s contract came to light, the player made a point of taking to Instagram in order to state that joining the Patriots is “not about the money”. And this is something that is far from a motivating factor as he looks to make the most out of another opportunity following his acrimonious departure from Carolina.
"“It’s not a lot of things money cannot buy, but amongst the top of that list of things, you would find respect as one of those. This is not about money for me, it’s about respect.”"
This should leave absolutely no doubt just how motivated the player is to prove the doubters wrong. Newton is going to New England with a huge chip on his shoulder. And this is the sort of low risk, high reward move that Bill Belichick has had a tremendous amount of success with over the years.
Why money is not a motivating factor for former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton
According to Spotrac, Cam Newton has made $121.93 million during his time with the Carolina Panthers. That is without counting the number of endorsements the player has earned throughout his career.
All Newton was looking for was another chance. He can feel rightfully hard done by in terms of the manner and timing in which he was released. And now he will get the chance to show the world that the Panthers gave up on him too soon.
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Finding the best fit was much more important to Newton than any financial benefits. Although the Patriots were the only team that made him a formal offer. This might have been his preferred destination regardless.
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Newton has a tremendous chance of being the day one starter in New England. The jury is still out on whether Jarrett Stidham can lead them going forward. And Brian Hoyer is nothing more than a journeyman at this stage of his career.
It’s going to take a huge character to step into the shoes left by legendary quarterback Tom Brady. But if anyone can do this without missing a beat, then it is Newton.
Much will depend on how healthy the player actually is. But if he is anything like the signal-caller that was playing so well in 2018 before injury took its toll, then this is going to be an all-time masterstroke from Belichick.
It is also going to bring Newton a substantial reward financially next spring, either with the Patriots or elsewhere. If the former No. 1 overall pick can show he still has what it takes, then this is going to come with a wealth of different offers.
There is a lot of football to be played between now and then. And what comes next will come down to Newton’s desire and willingness to succeed.