The Chargers are in a race with the Buccaneers for quarterback Tom Brady.
However, Los Angeles could be eyeing another signal-caller if their plans don’t fall through with Brady.
The Carolina Panthers announced Tuesday they were allowing QB Cam Newton to seek a trade. And according to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, the Bolts are considering Newton
“As much as Chargers ownership wants to chase Tom Brady (and it does), Panthers Cam Newton fits more of the style/scheme of the QB that has intrigued the coaching staff heading into this offseason. Staff wants a QB that can move and create plays. Ownership wants to sell tickets,” Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson said.
Newton was the No. 1 overall selection of the 2011 NFL Draft. He is a three-time Pro Bowler with a league MVP, Offensive Player of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year. He led the Panthers to the playoffs four times, including a trip to Super Bowl 50 during the 2015 campaign.
In nine seasons, Newton has thrown for 29,041 yards and 182 touchdowns. On the ground, he has 4,806 yards and 58 touchdowns on 934 carries.
Despite the polished resume, Newton does come with some concern, particularly the injury bug.
He suffered a foot injury during a 2019 preseason game, and after struggling through the first two games of the regular season, Newton missed the remainder of the campaign and was forced to get surgery. Prior to that, he had two injuries, including a shoulder injury that required surgery.
Unlike Brady, Newton (30) is younger and offers more of an athletic skillset, which is something the Chargers offense has been wanting to employ.