It’s the end of an era in Carolina. After almost nine seasons as the Panthers’ head coach, Ron Rivera was fired on Tuesday.
This move came as a major surprise to those around the football world. That apparently includes injured former NFL MVP Cam Newton, who has only played under Rivera during his career with the Panthers.
Newton took to Instagram hours after the announcement of the firing with a heartfelt message.
“Will be forever grateful because of the impact you had on my life. Thank you for giving me an opportunity,” Newton wrote. “Thank you for believing in me. I can go on and on but most importantly, thank you for allowing me to be me.”
Newton finished his post by simply writing, “this one hurt deep.”
As with any professional marriage that lasts almost a decade, there was contentious moments between Newton and Rivera. But both blossomed in their careers working with one another.
It does appear that the two are tied at the hip. That could have a major impact on Newton’s future in Carolina. He’s currently on injured reserve with a Lisfranc injury.
Given that the Panthers are likely looking to start a rebuild, Newton could be calling a new city home next season. Maybe a reunion between the two could be in the future.