Cam Newton has just become a free agent again. The former NFL MVP’s time with Bill Belichick has come to an end. If Belichick couldn’t make him great again, is it possible Cam’s days as a QB1 are over?
Maybe. Probably not. Newton has shown no interest in wanting to retire, and his big personality won’t let him settle for anything less than what’s best for him. There are plenty of great landing spots for the 32 year old.
Houston Texans
For Cam to go to the Texans would be an almost guaranteed starting position. With Deshaun Watson’s status undecided, (and most reports hinting towards him not playing) Cam would likely be extremely productive here. Currently, Tyrod Taylor is Houston’s starting quarterback, although he hasn’t seen the field much recently. Last year, while Taylor was still on the Chargers, the team doctor punctured his lung while trying to heal his rib in surgery. Taylor lost the starting job after that to the young and electric Justin Herbert, and hasn’t started a game since. Houston could be a prime landing spot for Newton.
New York Jets
Cam Newton isn’t on the best of terms with this year’s draft class, considering the fact that Mac Jones just edged him out of the Patriots’ roster completely. He probably wouldn’t start in New York either, but he could be a great mentor for rookie Zach Wilson. Not to mention he would be helping the Jets’ complete lack of depth in the QB position. The competition could force Wilson to play better, and give him a solid backup in case he can’t step up for the big leauge. This may not be the best move for Newton personally, but it would help out the entire Jets organization significantly.
Indianapolis Colts
Currently, the Colts have Jacob Eason as their QB1. Eason backed up Phillip Rivers last year, who has never missed a snap due to an injury. Therefore, playing in the NFL is just as new to Eason as it is to his backup, rookie Sam Ehlinger. With Carson Wentz out for the season, the Colts need a solid quarterback to help lead their way to the playoffs again. The team has a lot of talent and a legitimate shot at a playoff run — if they can get a solid quarterback to lead the way. Newton may be able to get a great season out of the Colts if they are willing to sign him. Even if they only sign him to a 1-2 year contract, he could mentor the two younger QBs and give them a veteran’s perspective to help them improve.
Dallas Cowboys
Dak is back… but what about that pesky shoulder problem that keeps lingering around in the news? The Cowboys reported that Dak Prescott was feeling some slight discomfort in his throwing shoulder, which can pose as a big threat to a quarterback like him. The Cowboys don’t really have a great depth chart at the QB position. After Andy Dalton went to the Bears this off-season, the Cowboys were left with Cooper Rush as their backup. Last season alone proves how desperately the Cowboys need Dak. He shouldn’t miss any of the season for the shoulder injury right now, but if this is a lingering problem (or he has discomfort in his ankle), the Cowboys could use a trustworthy backup to take Prescott’s place while he rests up. Newton would be a great fit for a backup role in Dallas.
Falcons, Ravens, Buccaneers and Bengals
None of these teams have immediate threats to the quarterback position. In fact, all of these teams have pretty established QB1s. The only concern for these teams is the backup quarterback. If the starting quarterback was to get hurt, none of these teams have a solid second option. Most of these teams have a lot of talent as well, and face a similar problem to the Cowboys. If the QB1 needs a week to rest up, can the team count on the backup to keep them in the running for playoffs? Newton would be a great backup to most of these guys, and it would give him a chance to work with some real talented teams.
Essentially, we know Cam isn’t ready to give up football. His presence would probably help a lot of teams out, but they may not be the best landing spot for him. He still has plenty of years left in him, and it’s safe to say that the former MVP isn”t done quite yet.
