Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton played just two games last season before being sidelined with a Lisfranc foot injury. The latest in a string of incidents limiting his opportunities, a cloud of uncertainty has settled over Carolina as the team continues to trend in a new direction despite a year remaining on the former number one overall pick’s current contract.
Linebacker Luke Kuechly abruptedly announced his retirement earlier in the offseason and the Panthers most recently disclosed tight end Greg Olsen would be entering the free agent market. Unexpected or not, these actions open various opportunities for younger talent across the roster but all eyes are and have been on exactly what general manager Marty Hurney, owner David Tepper and new coach Matt Rhule decide about Newton’s future.