Cam Newton
This would take a significant amount of pride swallowing on both sides. But the Carolina Panthers need a spark and re-signing Cam Newton would be met with widespread approval within the organization and of course, across the fanbase.
Newton was beloved in Carolina after arriving as the No. 1 overall selection out of Auburn. He transformed the Panthers from also-rans to legitimate Super Bowl challengers and into the national spotlight.
The way Newton was treated before leaving the organization was unacceptable. As it turned out, it was a sign of things to come from a ruthless new regime.
This left Newton extremely bitter, and rightfully so.
But considering the complications Carolina’s had at quarterback since the 2015 NFL MVP departed, they’d have been better off letting Newton see out the final year of his deal and going from there.
Carolina would need to eat some real crow to pick up the phone and ask Newton to return. The signal-caller is now fully vaccinated and waiting for the right opportunity following his release from the New England Patriots, so it would be nothing short of a bombshell.
It would certainly get beleaguered fans who are growing weary of losing football back onside. Even if Newton’s not the same force these days.