If you’re hoping for another reunion between Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers, it’s still very much a possibility. But that reunion, per Jonathan M. Alexander of The Charlotte Observer, could come with a few drawbacks for the former Most Valuable Player.
On Monday, Alexander reported that the Panthers are still open to bringing back their all-time leading passer. That, however, could be a bit of an uphill climb for Cam—as Newton would have to sign on for a “smaller salary” from 2021 and would not be considered the starter heading into training camp.
Two weeks ago, general manager Scott Fitterer joined PFT PM and told host Mike Florio that Newton and the team have remained in communication about a possible return.
“I think we’re still having thoughts,” Fitterer said. “We have to see how this works out here throughout the spring. I just happened to be up at the [Kentucky] Derby last weekend and Cam was up there. We’re texting a little bit. The lines of communication are open. I know Coach Rhule has spoken with him. We are going to have a discussion at some point but we’re just not quite there yet, but we’ll see how it goes. The more competition we have at that position the better.”
If not Newton, that competition could be Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield. As also noted by Alexander, the Panthers are likelier to wait for the Browns to release their disgruntled passer rather than trade for the 2018 first overall pick.
“Discussions with the Browns and other teams will likely continue, but the Panthers are more likely to wait until the Browns potentially cut Mayfield to pick him up, sources have said,” writes Alexander, who also added that Carolina wants Cleveland to take on approximately $13 million to $14 million of Mayfield’s $18.9 million salary in a trade.
As of now, time is on the Panthers’ side—even if their options aren’t exactly the cream of the quarterback crop.
