4 reasons the Panthers must swallow their pride and re-sign Cam Newton
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers must swallow their pride and re-sign Cam Newton in the wake of quarterback Sam Darnold’s concussion in Week 8.
Sam Darnold showed some signs of life against the No. 30 ranked Atlanta Falcons defense during a hugely important Week 8 win for the Carolina Panthers. However, the quarterback went out of the game in the fourth quarter with a concussion after taking a brutal hit near the goal line.
The Panthers don’t yet know the full extent of Darnold’s injury. So it will be something to monitor closely throughout the week. Head coach Matt Rhule is hopefully the former first-round pick can play in Week 9 against the New England Patriots, but they’d be wise not to rush the signal-caller back too soon and risk further complications.
Carolina also doesn’t appear that confident in P.J. Walker’s ability to lead under center. Considering he is the only remaining quarterback on the active roster, bringing in someone else to compete wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world.
And it just so happens there is a player still sitting on the free-agent market that is extremely familiar with the organization.
Things did not end well between Cam Newton and the Panthers. The 2015 NFL MVP was released in messy circumstances and although he got another shot with the Patriots, he was let go this offseason and is looking for another shot elsewhere.
Newton is now fully-vaccinated, which will only enhance his cause. If the Panthers are looking for an immediate lift if Darnold is forced to miss extended time, then picking up the phone and calling the Auburn product is a move they should consider.
With this in mind, here are four reasons why the Panthers should swallow their pride and re-sign Newton if Darnold is unavailable for a prolonged period.