Change is in the air around the Carolina Panthers organization. Cam Newton, their star quarterback and former NFL MVP will miss most of 2019 with a broken foot that will require surgery to fix. In his place, unheralded backup Kyle Allen has seized the reins to such an extent that many feel he is the future of the offense. With Newton's health status and pricey contract, most feel this is the best opportunity for the team to move on. This means the quarterback will be available in 2020.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport confirmed this on Sunday, stating that it's unlikely at this point that Newton plays another snap for the Panthers. The plan is for him to heal up this offseason and to find a new team. Most likely via a trade similar to what the Baltimore Ravens accomplished with Joe Flacco this year. Odds are Newton will be a bit more expensive though even with the health concerns.
Where do the Chicago Bears factor into all this? Rapoport talked about the Newton situation at length and he stated that a quarterback-needy team like the Bears would make sense for him. Then he added a little fuel to the fire when he stated that it was his understanding such a move is something that the quarterback himself would "welcome."
Cam Newton is certainly a debate topic for Bears fans
The quarterback question doesn't figure to be something that will go away anytime soon for the Bears. Mitch Trubisky had one of his better games this season against the Lions on Sunday with three touchdown passes. However, it's still apparent that he's struggling to process games at the necessary speed for consistent success. The team remains firmly behind him and believe he will get things turned around sooner or later. However, with a potential Super Bowl season in danger of being wasted because of below-average QB play? Some feel the team must look for an alternative.
In terms of pure talent, Newton would instantly become the best quarterback available next offseason. His track record of success speaks for itself. Multiple Pro Bowls. An MVP and a trip to the Super Bowl in 2015. It certainly seems enticing on paper, but there are some concerns. For one Newton hasn't played a full season since 2017 as shoulder and now foot injuries have derailed him. It makes one concerned that his body might be breaking down after years of punishment.
Then there's the question of scheme fit. Bears head coach Matt Nagy runs an offense that often has the quarterback survey and deliver from the pocket. By contrast, Newton is used to running an offense that is dedicated to running the football. Something Nagy isn't known for. Newton can read defenses but when it comes to going through progressions and getting the ball out fast and on time? That's never been his strength.
Then again, adjusting the system to fit the player is what Nagy gets paid for. Finding a way to utilize Newton wouldn't be too challenging. Whether the Bears consider this? That's the big question people will be asking come next spring.
