Colin Kaepernick or Cam Newton: Who will NFL teams sign first?
Will Colin Kaepernick or Cam Newton land an NFL contract first in 2020?
Both Colin Kaepernick and Cam Newton, a pair of quarterbacks who have played in the Super Bowl in their NFL careers, are searching for jobs. Kaepernick has been looking for some time after his protests during the national anthem sparked controversy while Newton was cut by the Carolina Panthers this offseason.
Given the recent Black Lives Matter movement gaining steam throughout the league, including commissioner Roger Goodell saying he’d “encourage” a team signing Kaepernick, there has been growing buzz that the former 49ers quarterback will get another NFL shot. Meanwhile, Newton has been a hot topic of conversation for some time. But who will an NFL team sign first?
Despite their lack of a gig right now, both Newton and Kapernick have proven their talent, leading teams to Super Bowls — even if they lost in the Big Game. Moreover, they are both still relatively young in terms of their careers as Newton is 31 and Kaepernick is only 32 years old. Age shouldn’t be a dictating factor in why they’re currently unsigned.
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It’s not all similarities between the two players, however. While Kaepernick was a second-round pick who forged a path to starting and succeeding, Newton was the No. 1 overall pick, expected to change the fortunes of the Panthers for a long time. Meanwhile, Newton has also been plagued by injuries, something Kaepernick has not necessarily had to deal with.
Colin Kaepernick is the logical pick to get a deal first.
Between the two, it’s difficult to say who will be signed first. Newton and Kaepernick have each proven how valuable they can be and an argument can be made for both players. However, if we’re talking about the first player to get a deal, it’s likely going to be Colin Kaepernick — though that’s not to say Newton can’t follow close behind.
Given the current cultural climate and the support for Kaepernick and his cause, it would only make sense for him signing to be the next step. Yes, there aren’t a lot of quarterback-hungry teams right now. But he would be a stellar option as a backup. Heck, he could end up reviving his career in the vein of Teddy Bridgewater.
Newton, on the flip side, was just released this offseason. So, if they are in need of a player who can quickly make an impact, he may be the better option. Kaepernick has been out of the league for three years and that could hurt his stock on the open market.
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No matter who signs first, though, Kaepernick and Newton are talented enough to be on NFL rosters in the 2020 season. But if you’re betting on who will be the first to get a new deal, put your money on Colin Kaepernick.