Cam Newton remains available on the free-agent market, but at least one team may have an interest in signing the veteran quarterback.
That would be the Panthers. Jonathan M. Alexander of The Charlotte Observer reports that Carolina is "open to signing" Newton. However, the team's interest comes with a catch.
If the Panthers brought Newton back to continue his second stint with the team, he "would not enter camp as the starter," per Alexander. Additionally, the 33-year-old quarterback "would have to agree to a smaller salary" to make a return possible.
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This lines up with what Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer told Pro Football Talk's Mike Floria in a recent appearance on PFT PM.
"I think we’re still having thoughts," Fitterer said of bringing Newton back. "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."
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While Fitterer may want more competition at the quarterback spot, it's unclear whether Newton would be interested in competing for the starting job. It's also unclear whether Newton would be interested in playing at a reduced salary. The Panthers gave him a one-year deal worth $6 million to join the team midway through the 2021 NFL season as they struggled with Sam Darnold and PJ Walker at quarterback.
However, it's worth noting that Newton struggled in his eight games (five starts) last season. The Panthers went 0-5 in those starts while Newton completed a career-low 54.8 percent of his passes. He totaled 684 passing yards, four touchdowns, four interceptions and a paltry 5.4 yards per attempt through the air.
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Newton still brings value as a runner; he generated 230 yards and five touchdowns on 47 carries last season. But given his decline as a passer, he may have a tough time finding a team willing to sign him. So, if the Panthers come calling, he could be interested in striking a deal, no matter what the cost.
Either way, Carolina's quarterback situation still appears to be in flux. For now, Darnold and rookie Matt Corral are expected to compete for the starting job with Walker representing the dark horse in that race. The team also has undrafted free agent Davis Cheek on its roster as a fourth-string quarterback. He could be bumped off if the team elects to bring back Newton.