4 Panthers players with most to prove in Week 15 at the Bills
By Dean Jones
Cam Newton – Carolina Panthers QB
Although Cam Newton is one of the most decorated players to ever suit up for the Carolina Panthers, just what the future holds for the former NFL MVP beyond the current campaign is still in question.
A bombshell start to life back with the organization is now firmly in the rearview mirror and things have to improve from a production standpoint. Otherwise, his second stint in Carolina might be a short one.
Newton is working with one hand tied behind his back, to a certain extent. His offensive line is terrible, the Panthers fired Joe Brady and replaced him with Jeff Nixon, with arriving so late in the day another huge obstacle to overcome.
The Auburn product is holding himself accountable. Newton has quickly emerged as someone other members of the locker room are looking to for guidance and inspiration, which is a testament to his status within the league but has piled on additional pressure in the process.
Newton will be the first to tell you things haven’t been good enough. No other NFL team was willing to give him another chance following his release by the New England Patriots and although his fairytale return to Carolina was incredible, it all comes down to how he performs under center.
Having something to prove should inspire Newton. But the margin for error is slim and it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see the Panthers make another rash judgment at the most important position on the field.