There is always going to be a significant twist when it comes to NFL free agency. Especially when quarterbacks are involved. Sure enough the Carolina Panthers hatched the big one when they came to terms with Teddy Bridgewater on a three-year deal for $63 million. This makes him their new starting quarterback and spelled the end of the Cam Newton era. The 30-year was granted permission to seek a possible trade elsewhere.
While Newton disputes the idea they're letting him do anything, the fact is he'll be on a new team before the end of the month at the latest. Probably a lot sooner. It's a question of where that will be. Teams are already being speculated. New England is out there now that Tom Brady is gone. Some think the Los Angeles Chargers might make sense.
However, neither were the first team mentioned by insider Ian Rapoport. While discussing Newton's possible future on NFL Network, he explained that the Chicago Bears are definitely a team to watch as this process plays out.
Cam Newton certainly brings star power to the table
Right now the belief is the Bears have three options in front of them. Most saw Andy Dalton in Cincinnati and Nick Foles in Jacksonville as the two frontrunners. Newton though is another fish they have to consider. This is a three-time Pro Bowler who won MVP honors in 2015. He was playing really well in 2018 with 3,395 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 14 games. This in addition to 488 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. Then he injured his shoulder and was done for the year.
Last year things got off to a tough start and then he tore a ligament in his foot, ending his season after two games.
There are definite concerns about his health but at 30-years old it's reasonable to believe he has gas left in the tank. This is one of the most unique physical specimens in NFL history and now he has a chip on his shoulder. If the Bears want to bring some excitement to Chicago, getting Newton would certainly qualify.
