3 reasons former Panthers QB Cam Newton could join the 49ers

Cam Newton has chemistry with Christian McCaffrey

Another potential benefit to the San Francisco 49ers making a call in Cam Newton’s direction is his previous chemistry with Christian McCaffrey. The duo respects each other from their time together on the Carolina Panthers, which was sadly cut short thanks to some injury concerns for the running back and Matt Rhule never really on board with the quarterback’s return.

McCaffrey’s high-profile trade to the Niners was a win-win for all parties. It allowed the Panthers to acquire additional draft capital for Steve Wilks or a new head coach in 2023, which also provided the Stanford product with an opportunity to content rather than languish in obscurity.

Brock Purdy was a solid fill-in but depending on someone with almost no experience in a professional environment is a huge call to make. So it would be wise for general manager John Lynch to seek McCaffrey’s counsel for his thoughts on potentially bringing Newton on board.

This would send shockwaves through the NFL. There’s no getting away from that and San Francisco might decide to go with what they have and rely on others rather than the man under center.

Newton always keeps himself in supreme physical shape, so it would be a shock if he wasn’t able to contribute right away. His ability to lead men and his previous relationship with McCaffrey could sway those in power into an offer if they think it can help their chances of winning the NFC.

Only time will tell, obviously. But desperate times call for desperate measures and Newton could provide the franchise with the lift they’re craving after Jimmy Garoppolo’s injury.