What Cam Newton’s contract could potentially look like in 2022
By Dean Jones
What could Cam Newton’s contract look like if the Carolina Panthers decided to extend the quarterback beyond the current campaign?
It’s been nothing short of a whirlwind for Cam Newton over the past few weeks. From sitting on the free-agent market, a sensational return to the Carolina Panthers, and even starting the last two games, one could forgive the signal-caller for welcoming the current bye week and catching his breath after such a frantic period.
The reaction to Newton‘s incredible return was positive. There was plenty to like about his performances at the Arizona Cardinals and Washington Football Team, although things didn’t go according to plan in Week 12 during Carolina’s heavy loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Newton now has some additional time to learn Joe Brady’s playbook ahead of the final five games of the season – which will no doubt evolve into something of a referendum regarding the signal-caller’s future in Carolina.
Head coach Matt Rhule will stick with Newton as his starter despite last weekend’s showing. But what comes after that is less certain and the onus is on the former NFL MVP to leave no doubt as to his status.
All things considered, there’s been far more good than bad where Newton’s initial level of performance is concerned. It’s also worth remembering that the player has been out of action all year following his release by the New England Patriots and the offensive line in front of him couldn’t be classed as stellar by any stretch.
Stability is something the Panthers simply haven’t had the luxury of at the quarterback spot since the new era came in and ditched Newton. Teddy Bridgewater was traded after one season, the Sam Darnold experiment has blown up in their face, and P.J. Walker appears nothing more than a backup at this juncture.
That’s why it would be a huge shock if Newton’s second stint in Carolina ended after just a few short games.
But what could his potential new contract look like?
Cam Newton could get a short-term initially from the Carolina Panthers.
Newton made the Panthers play to get him back. His contract could be worth anything up to $10 million, with $4.5 million absolutely guaranteed ($6 million salary-cap hit) to the former first-round pick out of Auburn.
Much will depend on how Newton performs between now and the end of the season. Whether Panthers fans like it or not, there is also Darnold’s fifth-year option at a whopping $18.85 million to factor into the equation.
Whether Newton is after a multi-year deal or not is another question. Again, this will be related to production and the better he performs, the stronger his position will be at the bargaining table.
Considering how Newton’s departure was muddled last time and the reaction it received, it’s vital for those in power to handle this situation correctly.
If they decide to cut ties, it must be handled with dignity and respect.
Newton might deserve a full offseason with a talented young roster. Carolina should also make strengthening their offensive line a top priority during free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft to further assist his cause.
Perhaps a one-year deal is the best possible solution for all parties. Somewhere in the region of $20 million with incentives might be enough, which is pretty modest for a starting NFL quarterback in the current era.
If things work out, then the Panthers can keep Newton around even longer. But this whole situation could have been avoided had they just let him see out the final year of his deal in the first place.
There’s a lot to be determined. Make no mistake about that.
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But at least Newton’s destiny is in his own hands. Something the iconic figure couldn’t say a month ago.