The Carolina Panthers created quite a stir when news spread that they were set to sign Teddy Bridgewater. It was a bit of a surprise considering the Chicago Bears were the first team mentioned to be signing the 27-year-old quarterback. However, the more pressing question is why did the team give up on Cam Newton.
Newton was hardly a factor last season, spending more time in the sidelines due to a Lisfranc fracture. He played only two games and was eventually placed on the injured reserve. However, not many had expected him to seek a trade. It made no sense since he was yet to officially return to active NFL duty.
It seems pretty obvious that the Panthers have opted to move in a different direction. They have a new head coach in Matt Rhule, someone who took over from Ron Rivera. Carolina is on rebuilding mode and most thought that it would be centered on Newton. It turns out the overhaul was going to be a complete one.
For his part, Newton lashed out at the Panthers and said he never sought permission for a trade. According to general manager Marty Hurney, he had met with the former NFL MVP. But on social media, Newton fired back and said that he made no such request. He reiterated his love of the Panthers and hinted that all this was manipulated.
“I never asked for it!! There is no dodging this one. I love the Panthers to death and will always love you guys!! Please do not try and play me, or manipulate the narrative and act like I wanted this; you forced me into this!!”
For those who have followed the Panthers closely, this is not the first time that tables were turned on a player. Tight End Greg Olsen experience the same and even replied to the Panthers' post with "sounds familiar."
It was back in February when the Panthers announced that they were parting with Olsen despite a long and productive run. However, the 35-year-old said that the parting was no mutual but the team decided to move in a different direction in an interview with WFNZ-AM/FM. Olsen is now with the Seattle Seahawks.
As for Newton, it remains to be seen where he could end up next. A lot of NFL teams are in search of a quarterback such as the New England Patriots. With Tom Brady reportedly headed to another team (unofficially the Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Pats owner Robert Kraft may want to look into Newton. However, the 30-year-old QB needs to get a clean bill of health first.
