Panthers releasing former NFL MVP Cam Newton; Will Patriots be interested?

The Cam Newton Era is over with the Carolina Panthers. Last week, the team told Newton's camp that it could try to find a trade partner for the former NFL MVP and No. 1 overall pick, but apparently no club came up with an offer the Panthers liked. They have added Teddy Bridgewater and former XFL star P.J. Walker in free agency at quarterback so it was time do cut bait with Newton, and he was released on Tuesday.

The coronavirus had an effect on Newton's potential trade market because he's coming off major foot surgery and teams are not allowed to currently give physicals to players with medical question marks. That was one reason the Chicago Bears, who were considered a potential Newton suitor, opted to send a fourth-round pick to Jacksonville for Nick Foles instead.

Still unfathomable that Carolina couldn't get a draft pick for a guy this talented yet it was able to get a fifth-round pick on Monday from the Washington Redskins for quarterback Kyle Allen, a former undrafted free agent. Then again, Newton lost his final eight starts with Carolina and also has a history of shoulder trouble in addition to the foot issue. Some team will take a shot on him, though. The Panthers clear $19.1 million in cap space by releasing Newton.

The Redskins were among the favorites via SportsLine oddsmakers last week to be Newton's next team, but they are longer shots after trading for Allen to back up Dwayne Haskins. New England might be out after adding veteran Brian Hoyer.

Reports were that the Chargers would move forward with Tyrod Taylor as their starter after losing out on Brady and not add another veteran, but that was when Newton was only available in trade. If Newton goes to Jacksonville or Denver, it would be as the No. 2 behind Gardner Minshew and Drew Lock, respectively. 

Via SportsLine oddsmakers: Which team will Cam Newton be playing for Week 1 of the 2020 season?

• Chargers +250
• Dolphins +300
• Patriots +400
• Jaguars +600
• Broncos +900
• Redskins +1400
• Steelers +2000