Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers agree to massive deal

The Carolina Panthers and Cam Newton agreed to reunite today — setting the NFL world ablaze. With the Panthers in the thick of the NFC playoff race, Newton will hope to return and lead his former squad to the promise-land once again.

While many have hypothesized that Newton is just keeping Sam Darnold’s seat warm, his contract states otherwise. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Newton is receiving “legit and real starter money.”

“Source: The #Panthers are giving QB Cam Newton a 1-year deal worth up to $10M for the rest of year,” tweeted Rapoport. “Includes $4.5M fully guaranteed and $1.5M roster bonus.”

Evidently, the Panthers are committing to their former star for the rest of 2021. While Darnold was capable through the first three weeks of the season, the wheels have truly fallen off over recent weeks.

Moreover, Newton spent the first nine years of his NFL career in Charlotte after the Panthers used their No. 1 overall selection on the Auburn signal caller in 2011. He led the Panthers to three division titles, four playoff appearances and a Super Bowl appearance, and he was named NFL MVP in 2015.

In total, Newton started 124 of the 125 games in which he played for the Panthers and threw for 31,698 yards, 190 touchdowns and 118 interceptions. A true dual-threat quarterback, he also had 4,806 rushing yards and 58 scores on the ground.

This weekend, the Panthers have a tough-test with the Arizona Cardinals. It remains to be seen if the team will go with backup P.J. Walker, or give Newton a shot against the top team in the NFC.

Cam Newton returning to the Carolina Panthers

While Newton may not get his shot this weekend, a juicy storyline is on the table for the following week. If Newton starts for the Panthers in their following game against the Washington Football Team, he’ll be going up against his former coach in Ron Rivera.

Rivera’s squad has been one of the most disappointing teams in the entire league, as they currently sit in last place in their division. It was debated whether Washington should bring Newton onto their roster as they’ve dealt with quarterback troubles, but they opted to go with another former Panther — Taylor Heinecke.

Nevertheless, Cam Newton is back where it all started. Following a hiccup in New England, we’ll see if he can rebuild his once must-see NFL career.