Panthers 'Still Open' to Signing Cam Newton to New Contract in Free Agency, GM Says

At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday, Scott Fitterer told reporters that the team is open to re-signing quarterback CamNewton.

We want to have that conversation with him directly.

The team website provided more context from the presser.

"Fitterer said bringing back Newton remains a possibility at some level, but they didn't want to say too much before sitting down face-to-face with the former No. 1 overall pick, which is what they said they'd do when they met with him in November at owner David Tepper's home. That next meeting will happen before the start of free agency on March 16."

Carolina currently has Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker under contract for next season.

The No. 1 overall pick from the 2011 draft was a star for the Carolina panthers for nine seasons and won the league's Most Valuable Player award in 2015. The three-time Pro Bowler won the rookies of the year in 2011.

The first stint in Carolina for the 2010 Heisman Trophy winner ended after the season because of a foot injury.

The new regime led by Fitterer and Matt Rhule started in 2020 and had a change at quarterback in the following year. Newton started for the New England Pats.

Carolina decided to move in a different direction in 2021. After Darnold suffered a fractured scapula,Newton rejoined Carolina as a free agent.

He completed 54.8% of his passes for four touchdown and five intercepts in eight games. The man had 230 yards and five scores on the ground.

The Carolinas could look to the draft or free agency to find another quarterback to compete for the starting job if they bring backNewton. They own the No. 6 pick in the draft.