4 encouraging signs from Cam Newton’s first start since returning

What were the positives to take from Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton’s first game back starting since his sensational return?

It was an occasion that nobody associated with the Carolina Panthers will forget in a hurry. Even if Cam Newton was unable to mark his first official start with a win against the Washington Football Team.

Considering how long it’s been since Newton‘s had meaningful snaps in a competitive environment and the fact he only had one week to learn the playbook, the 2015 NFL MVP performed well with the entire NFL world looking in his direction.

There are some things to clean up – which is to be expected. But there could be little blame on the quarterback’s shoulders as Carolina fell to their sixth loss of the campaign and out of the playoff places.

With this in mind, here are four encouraging signs from Newton’s first start back in Carolina.

Encouraging Sign No. 1

Cam Newton can still run

We won’t spend much time on this because it was pretty obvious beforehand. But Cam Newton can still get out on the move and create yards on the ground when required.

This has been the hallmark of the player’s time in the league and something that can help the Panthers down the stretch. Newton is physically imposing, tough to bring down, and although he might not be the dynamic force of old, it’s a threat every opposing defense has to take extremely seriously.

Newton should get more freedom to make adjustments once the Auburn product further familiarizes himself with the system. This should only mean good things moving forward.