5 best moments from the Carolina Panthers’ 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Cam Newton’s return to the Carolina Panthers
This is the moment that will live long in the memory of every Carolina Panthers fan. One of the most shocking developments anywhere in the league in 2021.
With Sam Darnold struggling and put on the reserve/injured list, the Panthers made a bombshell move by bringing back Cam Newton. The former NFL MVP mended some fences with members of the current regime and was paid handsomely in the process, with the move completely galvanizing a fanbase that was losing faith rapidly.
Newton brought instant accountability and leadership to the locker room. Even though his return didn’t amount to much success on the field, it was a difficult situation to be walking into so late with a change in offensive coordinator thrown in for good measure.
When Newton came out as the starter in Week 11 against the Washington Football Team, it was a spine-tingling moment. The prodigal son returning to a place he helped propel into the national spotlight.
This might have been a business move, in all honesty. Especially given how quickly Matt Rhule installed Darnold back into the lineup once healthy.
However, this provided fans and Newton himself with some closure. If he does depart for a second time this offseason, he can leave with his head held high.