The Carolina Panthers have signed quarterback, Cam Newton, back on the team two years after releasing him.
Carolina signed Newton to a one-year contract on Thursday hours after it was reported that the team scheduled a meeting with their all-time passing leader regarding a possible return to the franchise that drafted him.
Newton, who played for the Panthers from 2011 to 2019, has been a free agent since the New England Patriots released him in August. The one-year contract is worth up to $10 million for the rest of the year, which includes $4.5 million fully guaranteed and a $1.5 million roster bonus.
Panthers general manager, Scott Fitterrer, said:
“I always admired the competitor athlete. But really meeting him today, this guy is all about team. He was really an impressive person. He’s coming in looking to help us. He thinks he can put us over the top.”
The Panthers were in need of a starting quarterback after starter Sam Darnold suffered a fracture in his right shoulder blade. Carolina had to place Darnold on injured reserve, which means he’s out for a minimum of three games. PJ Walker is scheduled to start Sunday and Carolina signed Matt Barkley this week for roster depth.
The Panthers have just two quarterbacks on the active roster, which is why it made sense to give Newton a call. Walker has struggled when he’s relieved Darnold, completing just 3 of 15 passes for 33 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions.
Newton is expected to start once he gets back into football shape, with the likely return in Week 11 against Washington.
Among the NFL records Newton owns, he has the most rushing touchdowns ever by a quarterback and the most games with a passing and rushing touchdown. Newton is second only to Michael Vick in career rushing yards by a quarterback.
The Panthers have bought the opportunity for one final tour with the 32-year-old Newton, which may be his final chance to prove he can still start in the NFL.
