The Carolina Panthers are moving on from Cam Newton.
The Panthers announced Tuesday it has given permission to its quarterback to seek a trade, paving the way for a split between the two. Newton is coming off a major foot injury and Carolina is underway on a full-scale rebuild.
Newton’s availability also raises the question of whether the Redskins would be interested.
Washington coach Ron Rivera and Newton spent eight-plus seasons together in Carolina, going to the Super Bowl in 2015. Rivera, too, has said he wants to create a “very competitive” quarterback competition for 2019 first-rounder Dwayne Haskins.
Newton carries a $21 million cap hit and is entering the last year of his deal. He was limited to just two games in 2019. He also underwent shoulder surgery in 2018, as well.
On Instagram, Newton sounded off on the Panthers, saying he never requested a trade.
“Stop with the word play,” Newton said. “I never asked for it!! There’s no dodging this one. I love the Panthers to death and will always love you guys. Please do not try and play me or manipulate the narrative and act like I wanted this. You forced me into this!!”
In a statement, Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said they would work with Newton to find the “best fit.”
“One of the distinct pleasures of my career was selecting Cam with the first pick in the 2011 draft,” Hurney said. “Every year difficult decision are made and they are never easy. We have been working with Cam and his agent to find the best fit for him moving forward and he will always be a Carolina Panther in our hearts.”
The Panthers, who hired coach Matt Rhule earlier this year, are reportedly interested in free agent quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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