Father Time changes the career outlook of even the NFL's most exciting players. Cam Newton, though he still does his Superman celebration, isn't immune. Yet he still has options in free agency.
In a text to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Newton revealed that clubs have shown interest in him.
Before anyone discusses the best team fits for Newton, we must understand what he brings to an offense while on a clear decline.
Between 2017 and 2019, Newton underwent multiple shoulder surgeries and a foot procedure because of a Lisfranc injury, which may have expedited the deterioration of his game. Over the past two seasons, he's made a one-year stop with the New England Patriots and returned to the Carolina Panthers, throwing for 3,341 yards, 12 touchdowns and 15 interceptions with a 63 percent completion rate.
In his 11-year career, Newton has only thrown for 4,000-plus yards once (his rookie campaign), more than 24 touchdowns once (his 2015 All-Pro year) and completed at least 60 percent of his pass attempts in just four seasons.
With a low volume of passing production mixed with inefficiencies even in his prime, Newton will find it difficult to land a starting job for the 2022 season at 32 years old, coming off consecutive subpar campaigns. In 2021, he had a chance to re-establish himself in a lead role with five starts but eventually took a backseat to Sam Darnold.
However, Newton's athleticism and ball-carrying ability can extend his career. Despite his underwhelming passing performances with the Patriots and Panthers the last two years, he either led or tied for the most rushing touchdowns on both teams, scoring 17 times on the ground during that stretch. The 6'5", 245-pounder registered all but one of those rushing touchdowns within 12 yards of paydirt.
Newton can still contribute to a team in short-yardage and goal-line situations with the threat to catch defenders off guard with a throw downfield.
As Newton stated in his text to Schefter, he wants to help a winning team with a chance to play a significant role. After finishing the previous season on the sideline behind Darnold on a 5-12 Panthers squad, he'll probably look for opportunities elsewhere.
Where should Newton go in the next chapter of his career? Three teams fit his expectations.
Seattle Seahawks
After the Seattle Seahawks traded Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos, they destroyed their immediate chance at winning a Super Bowl but opened up a vacancy at quarterback, which may appeal to Newton.
