Is It Time To Put Cam Newton On Injured Reserve?

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Carolina Panthers are halfway through the season with a 5-3 record. Is it time to make a decision about Cam Newton? The Cats topped the Titans, 30 – 20, without Cam. And now, reports are swirling that the quarterback’s foot injury is not healing as quickly as everyone would like.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport tweeted Friday that “playing football is a long way off” for Newton. He also reported that Cam visited Dr. Anderson in Green Bay to learn why his condition isn’t improving. That contradicts what ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted two weeks ago, when he reported that Cam’s foot had healed well and that he was expected to be healthy soon.

As for clarity from the Panthers, Coach Ron Rivera was about as clear as mud on Monday while speaking with reporters. He says, “What we’re gonna do is Kyle Allen will start this week, Cam will continue his rehab program, I’ve got nothing further to add, guys. I can’t tell you anything other than what I’ve already told you. The Athletic’s Joe Person followed up and said, “Ron, is he discussing his options? We’ve heard talk about…” Rivera replied, “Joe, I don’t know who’s talking, but we’re not talking. I know that much. So, guys, I can’t add anything else to anything.”

Scott Fowler writes for The Charlotte Observer. After Sunday’s game, Fowler wrote it’s time to admit this is a lost year for Cam so everyone can move on to what is next. He says, “Even if Newton is finally healthy again in a month, how rusty would he be once he returns to practice? What if he returns but plays poorly? Or he re-injures the same foot? Or he still can’t or won’t run?”

Fowler points out correctly that those things would hurt Cam’s market value. His contract is up after the 2020 season. Fowler continues, “For Newton’s long-term marketability and the Panthers’ short-term future, I think it’s best for Newton to shut it down this year.”

Should Cam shut it down?

Our question of the night: Should the Panthers put Cam on injured reserve?

This episode’s panel features:
Matt Harris from The Matt and Ramona Show on 107.9 The Link
Two-time Super Bowl champ and former Pittsburgh Steeler Jeff Reed
Fox Sports Charlotte radio host and comedian QCB