NFL Rumors: After Losing Out On Bridgewater, Bears Target Newton

KEY POINTS

Bears working on deal for Cam Newton with Panthers
Newton's bill of health still in question
Newton could hit NFL free agency if Bears do not act fast

A day after a series of a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Bears now find themselves in search of a quarterback with Teddy Bridgewater set to join the Carolina Panthers. Further, this signals the end of the Cam Newton era and signals a complete overhaul over at the Panthers' side.

Ironically, it was the Bears who were first reported as having the inside track on Bridgewater. But not long after, the Panthers entered the fray. Hence, the odd man out after the turn of events is Newon, who also made it clear that he did not seek a trade from the Panthers. Much of this was covered in a previous post. Newton even got some backing in Greg Olsen, someone who similarly did not seek a trade but was released back in February.

Newton saw action in only two games last NFL season due to an injury. The former NFL MVP is suffering from a Lisafranc fracture, something that kept him out of action for the majority of the 2019-20 season. The three-time Pro Bowler has been plagued by injuries the past years, possibly a reason why Carolina decided to undergo a change in the QB position.

It remains to be known as to which team would be interested in signing Newton. But it appears one does not have to look that far. The Bears are still without a quarterback and Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports alleged that per unnamed sources, both Chicago and Carolina are discussing something for the 2015 NFL Offensive Player of the Year.

When healthy, there is no question that Newton is a monster on the field. He proved this back in 2015 when he led the Panthers to Super Bowl 50. It was a sterling performance for the top pick of the 2011 NFL Draft until the injury bug started to bite. With his performance dipping, the Panthers followed as well. Ron Rivera was fired as head coach but is now with the Washington Redskins. Matt Rhule is the new Panthers head coach, someone tasked to turn things around for Carolina.

Hopefully learning their lesson on Bridgewater, the Bears need to try and work out something with the Panthers soon. If Newton hits free agency, Chicago may have lower chances of signing him. The last thing that Matt Nagy wants is losing out anew in filling their quarterback void.