Ranking the 8 most influential Carolina Panthers in franchise history
By Dean Jones
CAM NEWTON. 1. player. 87. . QB. Carolina Panthers
Cam Newton – Former Carolina Panthers QB
Cam Newton was a cultural reset.
A No. 1 overall selection who completely revolutionized how the Carolina Panthers were perceived on and off the field.
Newton’s flamboyance, reckless playing style, and ability to produce the goods when it mattered most made him an icon in Carolina quickly. The quarterback was someone that fans and players alike gravitated towards, bringing a beaming smile and swagger that had been seldom seen within the Panthers before his arrival.
The former Auburn standout and Heisman Trophy winner propelled the Panthers from an afterthought into the national spotlight. This attracted a wealth of new, younger fans from across the country that still follow the team to this day.
Who could forget Newton’s contribution in 2015 when he became the face of the league?
The Panthers went 15-1 that year and won the NFC Championship before falling short in the Super Bowl. This saw the signal-caller deservedly come away with NFL MVP honors after a sensational campaign.
Injuries obviously took their toll on Newton. But one only has to look at the reaction his bombshell return got in 2021 to see just how much he remains a hero in the Carolinas.
What comes next for Newton is unclear.
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The Panthers have not closed the door on another go-around entirely. Even if this doesn’t materialize, Newton’s place in Carolina folklore is guaranteed.