5 avenues that Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton could pursue in 2022
By Dean Jones
Cam Newton could accept a backup role
When asked about becoming a backup somewhere, Cam Newton did not rule it out. However, he added that he wasn’t going to be a No. 2 on a struggling team.
That’s something Newton is well within his rights to say. He’s given absolutely everything to the NFL and standing on the sidelines for a team like the Carolina Panthers or another potential struggling organization is a sad way for him to go out.
If an opportunity arose that saw Newton become a backup option on a team that had a legitimate chance of winning a Super Bowl, it probably becomes a different story. This is the one accolade that’s eluded the Auburn product throughout his career – although he did come close during his 2015 NFL MVP campaign before disaster struck against the Denver Broncos.
Although some sections of the media would tell you otherwise, Newton has long been regarded as an exceptional teammate. Someone other players gravitate towards and this was evident right out of the gate once he returned to Carolina.
This could be invaluable for a team looking for a veteran backup presence. There is also the intriguing element of utilizing Newton is specialist packages in the red zone or short-yardage situations should they choose.
Accepting such a role also keeps Newton involved. Considering he’s shown no signs of walking away just yet, the scenario is something to consider providing the fit is right.