5 high-profile Panthers free agents who might not be back in 2022

(Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) Cam Newton
(Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) Cam Newton /
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(Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) Cam Newton /

Cam Newton – Carolina Panthers QB

When one examines the wreckage of the 2021 season, there is one undeniable highlight that sent shockwaves through the league and provided Carolina Panthers fans with a sense of hope they hadn’t had for quite some time. Cam Newton‘s shocking return was a sensational turn of events that galvanized everyone associated with the organization, and anybody that was at Bank of America Stadium for his homecoming against Washington will never forget it.

Newton made the biggest of impressions with two touchdowns in consecutive plays at the Arizona Cardinals. But coming into the organization so late and behind a dismal offensive line meant it was always going to be an uphill battle.

The former NFL MVP couldn’t produce the goods and Sam Darnold was installed as the starter once healthy, which sent Newton on the sidelines. Those in power have not ruled out a return for the Auburn product this offseason, but considering the building momentum surrounding an all-in trade for Deshaun Watson, it appears highly unlikely.

Making a return to a franchise that he dragged from mediocrity into legitimate Super Bowl contention was probably the closure Newton needed. It was evident the signal-caller was far from happy with how some individuals within the locker room were approaching things based on his exit presser comments, which was a far cry from the glory days of the 2010s when the quarterback was at the peak of his powers.

What comes next for Newton is unclear. But if this is the end, then Panthers fans can have nothing but admiration for a player that gave his absolute all.