The Carolina Panthers are struggling mightily this year. They are just 3-7-1 and their offense ranks 24th in yards per game (327.2) and points per game (19.5). This does not bode well for quarterback Cam Newton's future in Carolina.
Newton has one more year on his rookie contract, a team option in 2015 for just more than $14.5 million. While the 2011 No. 1 overall pick has dazzled with his physical gifts, the team has just one winning season under him. The decision makers who drafted Newton have since been replaced and Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman is not a lock to hand over a megadeal to a quarterback with long-term injury risks and a career 53.9 QBR and a completion percentage of less than 60. As is usually the case in situations such as these, there are several factors to consider.
"Most of the league insiders I've spoken with think the Panthers will re-sign Newton before he becomes a free agent in March 2015," ESPN's NFL Insider Mike Sando wrote. "There is at least some thought, however, that if Gettleman were serious about building around Newton, the Panthers would have done more to help the QB this season. Instead, Carolina entered 2014 with less reliable weaponry at wide receiver and with much less talent along the offensive line. Newton hasn't had much chance for success."
In addition to a lack of weapons, offseason ankle surgery and a broken rib that sidelined Newton for the season opener have also contributed to his down season. But through 59 starts, Newton's career resembles that of Jay Cutler, who is currently facing heavy scrutiny in Chicago and has made the team regret the $100 million-plus they committed to him.
Newton is 27-31-1 as a starter. Cutler was 27-32-0 through his first 59 games. Does that sub-.500 play merit a deal it Cutler's range ($18.1 million annually with $54 million in guarantees)?
"Bottom line: the smart money is that the Panthers will reach an extension with Newton. But it isn't the lock we might have expected entering the season, and there are some concerns in his early-career performance that might make the franchise think twice."
