Carolina Panthers, Cam Newton, #1 (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
The Buffalo Bills could use a better backup quarterback, and Cam Newton is the perfect fit with close ties to the team.
Cam Newton needs a job. The Buffalo Bills should provide employment.
Newton, 31, was released in March by the Carolina Panthers after nine years with the organization. In 2015, Newton won the NFL MVP, accounting for 45 total touchdowns while leading Carolina to the Super Bowl.
However, his career has been uneven since. In 2018, Newton underwent the first of two shoulder surgeries and missed the final two games of the season. After an abbreviated preseason, the Auburn national champion played the first two contests of the 2019 campaign before going on Injured Reserve for the final 14 tilts with a foot ailment.
Cam Newton to the Bills is a perfect NFL free agency fit
So why Newton to Buffalo? The Bills have Matt Barkley as the backup for quarterback Josh Allen. While Allen is the clear starter going into his third season, there’s a clear upgrade to be made behind him.
Of course, Newton has a long-standing relationship with head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane as well. Both were in Carolina for six years each during Newton’s run after being the No. 1 overall pick in 2011. Such familiarity should help bring about a deal if both sides are interested.
Newton will likely come cheap on a one-year deal, giving the Bills insurance if Allen can’t play all 16 games. Additionally, Buffalo is the frontrunner in the AFC East for the first time in two decades. Considering how often Allen runs and his propensity to take big hits downfield, bringing Newton in would be a strong option to ensure the season not disintegrating if Allen misses time.
Finally, this makes sense for Newton. He can play for a familiar face on a contending team. While Allen is the future in Buffalo, there’s also the chance he gets a shot to play either due to injury or ineffectiveness.
Being surrounded by quality weapons, good coaching and a great defense? Sounds an awful lot like the 2015 formula.