The Carolina Panthers are reportedly going with Cam Newton this season. That may come as a surprise to many, as it seemed like the team was moving away from the quarterback at the end of 2019.
That being said, not everyone is sold on the Panthers claiming they will be sticking with Newton. Matthew Berry of ESPN.com believes Newton could still be available in a trade, if the price is right.
“While all the public reports stated how much the Panthers are behind Cam Newton this season, I'm not so sure. The sense I got was that they don't want to just give him away, but if a team made a reasonable offer for him, he'd be dealt.”
There are two important things to note about that quote right there.
First of all, this is Berry's idea. He's not saying he's heard from Newton or the Panthers, or even “sources close to the situation.” This is just Berry saying that he's gotten the sense that they wouldn't be against trading Newton.
Second is the wording. Notice how Berry talks about the situation. He does not say anything about “if the Panthers are blown away by a trade offer.” Instead, he says “a reasonable offer for him.”
That implies that Carolina might not even be looking for an over-the-top deal. It's not like Berry is saying “well he won't be traded, unless someone overpays.” He's saying he thinks it would take a “reasonable offer.”
That sounds like the Panthers aren't exactly sold on Newton either. They would rather have him than trade him for scrap. If they can get a decent return though, his days in Carolina might be over.
The important thing to remember, however, is that these are not reports from inside the Panthers facility. This is just the sense that Berry got from hanging around the 2020 NFL Combine.
It's safe to assume he talked with reps from the Panthers and other teams as well. And clearly this was the vibe he was getting.
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