5 grave errors that cost Marty Hurney his job with the Panthers
By Dean Jones
Cam Newton’s release
Cam Newton was absolutely adored by most associated with the Carolina Panthers.
And he deserved better.
The iconic signal-caller was released by the organization at a time when it made things very difficult to find a spot with a realistic chance of starting. Newton spent the last 18 months on the sidelines through injury prior to his parting of the ways and although he was medically cleared to return, a new regime resulted in a change at the position with Teddy Bridgewater.
Newton did find a new home. But his departure was bitter.
A significant lack of compassion from Marty Hurney might have been further evidence of the cutthroat world of the NFL. However, it left a sour taste in the mouth and saw the fans turn against the general manager in no uncertain terms.
This was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Newton was idolized in Carolina after transforming the franchise from also-rans to legitimate Super Bowl contenders and although it didn’t end with an elusive first Vince Lombardi Trophy, his contribution will never be forgotten.
Considering how things have worked out with Bridgewater, keeping Newton around for the final year of his deal might have been the better option. Hindsight is a wonderful thing to have in the NFL, but the way Hurney and Carolina handled this situation was farcical and he’s paid the ultimate price.