5 free agents the Carolina Panthers must avoid this offseason
By Nick Halden
Cam Newton – Carolina Panthers QB
As tempting as it might be, the Carolina Panthers cannot afford to bring back Cam Newton next season. Even in a utility role, having the former NFL MVP around is confusing for a fanbase that needs to turn the page.
Sam Darnold is already under contract next season and likely to serve as the backup if Carolina isn’t willing to eat the dead cap hit. It seems more likely the Panthers will take a swing in the draft or free agency and keep the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 one more season.
Even if Carolina finds a way to part ways with Darnold, Newton still shouldn’t be an option.
At this point in his career, Newton is a back-up or a short-yardage weapon. Having him in this role in Carolina isn’t going to work.
Elsewhere, fans know what Newton is at this point in his career. But everyone in Carolina loves him and everything he did for the franchise.
At the first sign of trouble, fans would be clamoring for Newton to start or be inserted. Quarterback controversy is the last thing this team needs in the middle of the season.
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The final chapter for Newton didn’t end as we hoped it would. But it has been written and his time in Carolina is over with some closure.