The Carolina Panthers’ quarterback situation changed drastically on Tuesday night. Reports leaked out that the NFC South team had agreed to a free agent deal with QB Teddy Bridgewater, meaning that former #1 pick Cam Newton’s tenure in Carolina is nearing its end.
The divorce began to get ugly after the team reported that it had “given permission for Newton to seek a trade,” with the quarterback responding in an Instagram comment that the team had forced him into that situation.
In any case, Newton will now be available for suitors all over the league who are looking for an upgrade at the quarterback position. Let’s take a look at some of the best fits for the superstar.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are now looking for a new quarterback after Philip Rivers left for the Indianapolis Colts in free agency. With the team quite possibly looking to draft a quarterback like Justin Herbert or Tua Tagovailoa in the draft, Newton could be the perfect short-term solution.
The former 1st overall pick probably can’t be counted on for an entire season of play due to his injury problems, let alone multiple seasons, but Newton would be a perfect bridge to a young quarterback in the short-term.
His presence would also allow the Chargers to compete in the short-term considering the dynamic weapons, including Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Hunter Henry. Is this the perfect fit for Newton?
Chicago Bears
The Bears have been rumored as a potential landing spot for the 30-year-old quarterback, and it’s easy to see why. Mitchell Trubisky, who was drafted 2nd overall by the team only three years ago, has underwhelmed during his first three seasons with the team.
Could Newton be the quarterback to challenge Trubisky and possibly take his starting spot, if healthy? The team went 8-8 last season, and many thought that Trubisky held them back from making the playoffs. It could be beneficial for Newton to take over, add a little more talent at the position, and lead the Bears forward for the time being.
With Marcus Mariota, Philip Rivers, and Tom Brady off of the table, could this be Ryan Pace’s best option left on the table?
New England Patriots
The Patriots and Bill Belichick are still reeling from Tom Brady’s departure to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Could they go with another supremely talented quarterback to replace him? Newton could be a great option.
While Newton’s playstyle is totally different from Brady’s, he has shown a willingness to learn and adapt in different schemes during his time in Carolina. The possibility of playing for the NFL’s most highly-respected organization certainly wouldn’t be a disadvantage, either.
Let’s be honest: neither Cody Kessler nor Jarrett Stidham are going to start 2020 as the Patriots’ starting quarterback. Why not give Newton a shot to lead you to glory once again?
