4 critical factors behind Cam Newton’s jaw-dropping Panthers return
By Miles Ruder
What were some of the major factors behind quarterback Cam Newton’s sensational return to the Carolina Panthers?
Cam Newton is officially part of the Carolina Panthers again.
With the current state of the Panthers quarterback room, the team decided to bring back their former franchise quarterback on a one-year deal.
Not even two years ago, the Panthers decided to move on from Newton and get started with their future. And while Carolina has made excellent roster moves since separating with their former MVP quarterback, none of them have been at the quarterback position.
Carolina signed Teddy Bridgewater in March of 2020 before trading him to the Denver Broncos this past offseason. This was shortly after the Panthers traded for Sam Darnold in April, but he hasn’t exactly panned out either.
While Newton won’t be the starting quarterback on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals, the 32-year-old quarterback could have a limited role before possibly being at the helm of the offense in the Panthers Week 11 matchup against the Washington Football Team at Bank of America Stadium.
This meeting will be another reunion, as Ron Rivera is Washington’s head coach after spending nine years with Newton in Carolina.
Nevertheless, everyone in the Carolinas is excited to have Newton back. Here are four critical reasons behind Newton’s jaw-dropping return.
Major Factor No. 1
Cam Newton is a fan favorite
There’s been plenty of great players that have worn the Panthers uniform in recent years – Steve Smith Sr., Julius Peppers, Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis, Greg Olsen, and many more.
Include as many players you want, nobody is more popular in a Panthers uniform than Newton because of the passion and energy he brought to the field every single game.
When Newton’s name is announced in pregame introductions and he runs onto the field, Bank of America Stadium erupts. He possesses this uplifting aura around him that gets fans excited and that’s what makes his return so special.
A lot of the excitement of bringing Newton back is just seeing him repping the Panthers’ No. 1 jersey again. If he struggles, so be it.