The Carolina Panthers entered 2019 with quarterback on their minds. Despite having a former league MVP and first overall pick in Cam Newton, contracts and an increasing injury history led general manager Marty Hurney to begin preparations for the future.
No team looks forward to moving on from a franchise quarterback and the fact Newton is only 30 years old makes facing the issue even more controversial. The timing of his current contract expiration, following the 2020 season, and the fact Carolina could recoup $19 million in salary-cap space by either releasing Newton or trading him after this year is adding fuel to the fire for those ready to make a change.