At present, the Carolina Panthers only have Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker at quarterback.
Both options were unreliable in 2021 so they brought back Cam Newton.
Eventually, Newton wasn’t the answer as well, looking like a shell of his old self.
His return gave the Panthers some emotional boost, but nothing more.
After a 3-0 start, Carolina ended their season at 5-12.
However, the team owes a lot to the Auburn alumnus.
He gave the team identity during his heyday and led them to a stint in Super Bowl 50.
Unfortunately, they lost to the Denver Broncos, and the team unraveled from there.
Despite Newton’s limited performance last season, Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer would still want the former league MVP back.
Scott Fitterer says Cam Newton has to want to come back to the Panthers, and understand his role if he comes back. As for what that role is, Fitterer said, "Best player is going to play.''
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) March 25, 2022
ESPN NFL Nation writer for the Panthers David Newton tweeted, “Scott Fitterer says Cam Newton has to want to come back to the Panthers, and understand his role if he comes back. As for what that role is, Fitterer said, ‘Best player is going to play.”’
Fitterer’s statement means that he also has no idea who their quarterback will be.
It’s like they are starting on a clean slate and they are keeping all options open.
Can Newton Help The Panthers?
What a difference a year can make, especially for Newton.
With the New England Patriots, he won seven games and finished the season with 2,657 yards, eight passing touchdowns, and 12 rushing scores.
However, his return to Carolina was a disappointment.
He played eight games and started in five.
Unfortunately, he did not win any of those starts.
Newton completed only 54.8 percent of his passes for 684 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions.
He also added five rushing touchdowns for 230 yards.
NEXT: Panthers GM Changes His Tune On Sam Darnold