NFL Free Agency 2020: 5 Best landing spots for Teddy Bridgewater
By Samuel Teets
4. Carolina Panthers
After nine seasons as the team’s head coach, the Carolina Panthers fired Ron Rivera after Week 13. After the season, future Hall of Fame linebacker Luke Kuechly announced his early retirement. The Panthers cut ties with Greg Olsen, the first tight end to ever record three consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, earlier this month. Cam Newton could be the next member of the old regime on the chopping block.
After appearing in two games for the Panthers in 2019, Newton landed on injured reserve (IR). The flashy former MVP didn’t look like himself, and he later underwent surgery on his left foot. Originally a freakish, dual-threat quarterback, Newton looked hampered and slow during his limited action.
With years of wear and tear building up in Newton’s 30-year-old body, and a new regime coming to power in Carolina, the Panthers may decide to trade the former MVP in favor of an experienced veteran like Bridgewater.
The Panthers are in full rebuild mode. That’s partially why Matt Rhule, the team’s new head coach, got a seven-year contract. Carolina won’t return to Super Bowl contention for a few seasons. By the time the Panthers are relevant again, how worn out will Newton be? Carolina could dodge deciding on Newton’s fate later by trading him now and signing Bridgewater, who is only 27 years old.