Carolina Panthers: Cam coming off surgery, still has no offensive line
The Panthers, like the Chargers and Colts, haven’t done nearly enough to protect their franchise quarterback. Newton was clearly banged up throughout the 2016 season. He ended up hitting the turf 36 times after being sacked and countless other times after he had gotten rid of a pass beforehand.
As a result of all the abuse, Newton underwent offseason shoulder surgery and has just now begun to start throwing again for the first time since the season ended.
Needless to say, he’s going to need better protection to avoid further injury as he moves into the prime of his career. So what did general manager Dave Gettleman do to protect his most priceless investment? Why, he brought in Matt Kalil, of course. You know, the guy who stunk it up so bad in Minnesota the Vikings had no problem letting him hit the open market.
Kalil will be protecting Newton’s blind side, which gives us the willies. Furthermore, the rest of Carolina’s offensive line, minus center Ryan Kalil, is nothing if uninspiring. Keep your head on a swivel, Cam.