Cam Newton Sitting Out 2019?
Photo: nesn.com
New Panthers owner David Tepper has stated all options are open regarding Cam Newton and his injured shoulder, specifically sitting him out the entire 2019 season. Newton has been a staple for the Panthers over the course of his career, not missing hardly any games until he was shut down late this season. It would be entirely different not seeing Cam on the field for the Panthers, especially for an entire season. But as drastic as it sounds, it may be the right choice for the team.
First and foremost, it’s impossible to say what is the best option right now for the Panthers in regards to Cam Newton until we get more concrete information from doctors. His shoulder may just need an extended period of rest, or it may need another surgery. So, until we know further information, we cannot speculate too much. However, many people are comparing his situation to that of Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. Luck sat out the entire 2017 season after having shoulder surgery and has looked to come back better than ever. He had a very strong season this year, leading the Colts to the divisional round of the playoffs. Sitting out the 2019 season may provide the same benefit to Cam Newton and allow him to come back with a fresh start. As much as Panther fans want him on the field, the last thing they need is for Cam to try to fight through pain again. We saw how his productivity dropped off and it would also increase the chances of further damage.
If it’s determined he should sit out the entire season, the question then becomes “how should the Panthers address the quarterback position?” Some people might think they should draft a quarterback high in the draft. I don’t think this would be the right decision at all. The quarterback draft candidates are pretty weak this year and it would also signify the Panthers are ready to move on from Cam. What would they do when a healthy Newton is ready to play again in a year? Also, there are other priorities the Panthers need to address in the draft, such as the offensive line.
Another option would be to go with an inexperienced quarterback like Kyle Allen. To do this would be to use the 2019 season to get ready for the 2020 season. I think it can generally be agreed upon that Allen wouldn’t lead this team to the playoffs, but it would get him experience at the quarterback position to possibly be a solid back-up for the team in 2020. It would also allow the team to “rebuild” for a year and potentially get a high draft pick for the 2020 season. This option might be tough for Panther fans to hear, but is definitely better than wasting a high draft pick on a quarterback in the upcoming draft.
The third, and best option for the team, would be to sign a veteran quarterback who has the potential to take the team to the playoffs, therefore not wasting an entire season. The popular name being thrown around is Nick Foles, who has made a name for himself with his success as an Eagle. For this to happen though, the Panthers would need to clear some cap space, as they only have around $25 million. Foles would be a great addition to this team, but will certainly garner a lot of attention from teams all around the league this offseason. Teddy Bridgewater, Tyrod Taylor, and Ryan Fitzpatrick are also other veteran quarterback options. Essentially, this would be a one year job for any quarterback that would take over the reigns because Cam Newton is still the Panthers’ guy. He is still the quarterback expected to fill long-term needs for this organization. This offseason will be one to keep an eye on for Panther fans for sure because anytime you have questions surrounding the starting quarterback role, it creates interesting scenarios. Stay tuned Panther fans because things are just starting to heat up.
Garett