The Carolina Panthers’ decision to hire former Baylor head coach Matt Rhule raised a lot of eyebrows around the league on Tuesday.
It could also lead to a change of philosophy at the quarterback position. For a long time now, it’s been a foregone conclusion that the marriage between Carolina and former NFL MVP Cam Newton would soon come to a conclusion.
In talking about his new quarterback, Rhule seemed to suggest that he’s open to Newton returning. In fact, it looks like he’s leaning in that direction.
Newton, 30, played in just two games this past season after suffering a Lisfranc injury. He’s also lost his last eight starts dating back to the 2018 campaign.
The former league MVP is set to count just $21.1 million against the cap in 2020. That would represent the 15th-highest figure among NFL quarterbacks.
Even before hiring him, we focused on how Rhule could save Newton’s now-fledgling career. It looks like he might be given a chance.
If not, other internal options includes 2019 mid-round pick Will Grier and former undrafted free agent Kyle Allen.