What does the future hold for Cam Newton in 2022?

With free agency upcoming once again, what does the future potentially hold for Cam Newton following his sensational return to the Carolina Panthers in 2021?

It was a story that will live long in the memory. But what comes next for Cam Newton following his memorable return to the Carolina Panthers in 2021 remains a mystery.

The free-agent period is rapidly approaching and it appears unlikely the Panthers extend Newton. Although it has not been ruled out entirely by the primary decision-makers within the organization, who praised the former Auburn star for his level of impact after joining the team before their memorable Week 10 win at the Arizona Cardinals.

Newton is a realist and mature enough to know that this was probably a short-term scenario. His original departure was not handled well and if the Panthers decide to do the same this time around, then the signal-caller at least has some closure before exploring his options moving forward.

The market was not robust for Newton when he was released by the New England Patriots. If the Panthers hadn’t come calling, then there is a big chance he’d have sat out the entire campaign.

Cam Newton could still offer something to the Carolina Panthers

A one-time NFL MVP, Newton might not be the force of old but his leadership and ability carrying the football could still be of some use in the right fit. Fans who support the quarterback unconditionally also believe he’d be a far better option than Sam Darnold with a full offseason under his belt – something he wasn’t afforded in 2021.

Darnold also faces an uncertain future as the Panthers aggressively search for another starting option via the trade market. If they managed to acquire one, then the prospect of Newton coming back decreases from slim to non-existent in a hurry.

Retirement will be discussed when it comes to Newton. Someone who revolutionized the Panthers, surging them up from obscurity into the national spotlight and within touching distance of a Super Bowl before defeat against the Denver Broncos.

Nobody wants to see Newton going out holding a clipboard on the sidelines. He certainly doesn’t owe football anything after giving his absolute all, sacrificing his body and health along the way.

Newton is arguably the greatest Panthers player in history. A transcendent talent that lived up to his billing and more.

But the NFL waits for no man and the end could well be near.

It’s a ruthless business. One could also argue that Newton’s been dealt a poor hand over the last few years and contracting COVID-19 didn’t do his chances in New England any favors, either.

The signal-caller has plenty going on away from the gridiron to keep him occupied when his career eventually comes to an end. Whether that’s by choice or through a lack of interest in the years ahead remains to be seen.

One thing’s for certain, Newton deserves to go out on his own terms. But if he does decide to keep going, then the league might make that decision for him.

Newton’s legacy will live through the ages. He might even have one or two NFL chapters of his story to come when one considers the sub-par free agents on the market this year.

However, this is likely to be away from Carolina whether fans approve or not.