Cam Newton 2020: LA Chargers, New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills Are Best Fits For Quarterback

After spending nine years as the Carolina Panthers quarterback, Cam Newton finds himself without a job. The 30-year-old is a free agent, and few teams are looking for a starter for the 2020 NFL season.

Carolina tried to trade Newton but found no takers for the veteran. Newton has seen each of his last two seasons cut short by injuries.

When healthy, Newton was often among the best signal callers in the league. He won the 2015 NFL MVP award and led the Panthers to the Super Bowl. He’s made the Pro Bowl three times and won more than 10 games in three different seasons.

Newton will find a home sooner or later, likely at a reduced salary. Here’s a look at three of the best landing spots for the quarterback.

Los Angeles Chargers

L.A. is the clear best fit for Newton. The team didn’t replace Philip Rivers, and the Chargers failed to even add a backup quarterback in free agency. Head coach Anthony Lynn is comfortable going forward with Tyrod Taylor as the starter. If Taylor gets injured or is ineffective, Los Angeles is in big trouble. The Chargers have enough talent on defense and at the playmaking positions that an average quarterback could keep them in the playoff race. Easton Stick is the only other quarterback on the Chargers’ roster.

New England Patriots

The drop off from Tom Brady and the Patriots’ next quarterback could be staggering. New England doesn’t have a proven starter on the roster. Jarrett Stidham is the favorite to be under center in Week 1, despite having only four career pass attempts, one of which was intercepted. The Patriots might still be the best team in the AFC East with head coach Bill Belichick and the No.1 defense returning. A veteran with playoff experience, like Newton, could potentially continue New England’s streak of division championships.

Buffalo Bills

Newton might be the quarterback most similar to Josh Allen in the entire NFL. If Buffalo’s starter gets hurt, a healthy Newton might be able to fill in and prevent the Bills from missing a beat. Allen takes plenty of hits that make him more likely than most to be sidelined. Buffalo is in trouble if Matt Barkley or Davis Webb has to play for any significant period of time.