The Carolina Panthers experienced a bit of an overhaul of the coaching staff this offseason after parting ways with coordinators on both sides of the ball albeit for different reasons. Their most notable addition thus far has been offensive coordinator Norv Turner. Turner's hiring has undoubtedly brought a sense of optimism to the Panthers' struggling offense.
According to Darin Gantt of Pro Football Talk, head coach Ron Rivera recalled a conversation with quarterback Cam Newton in which he admits he was a bit nervous:
“I had an opportunity to talk to him after we had hired Norv,” Rivera said. “I knew he was going to go in and meet with Norv and say hello, and I asked him, ‘How you doing?’ ‘Well Coach, I’m excited and nervous.’ I said, ‘What are you nervous about?’ He said, ‘Coach, think about what he’s done for Troy Aikman and those types of guys.’ So it was kind of cool to listen to the anticipation in his voice.”
It is hard to imagine a player as confident and accomplished as Cam Newton getting nervous about meeting anyone in the NFL. However, it is certainly understandable given Turner's pedigree with a number of successful quarterbacks such as Dallas Cowboys legend Troy Aikman and Los Angeles Chargers veteran Phillip Rivers. That said, the former MVP is hoping to look every bit the part of an elite quarterback like the ones Norv Turner has coached before him.
Fortunately, he will not have to do much since he is already one of the most talented players in the league. However, it is evident that Newton's game could still use a bit of fine-tuning. Needless to say, it will be interesting to see what adjustments will be made to a Panthers offense that has fluctuated over the past couple seasons.
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