Free agent quarterback Cam Newton is reportedly going to work out at Auburn’s Pro Day. The one-time NFL MVP did not play in 2022, as he clearly wants the opportunity to compete for a starting job. It’s anyone’s guess whether or not Newton will ever earn said opportunity, but if he does, these five teams make the most sense.
Free agent QB Cam Newton announced that he will be throwing at Auburn's Pro Day tomorrow.
"Ain't 32 (expletive) better than me"pic.twitter.com/sid61dGaJi
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 21, 2023
Top 5 Cam Newton Free Agent Team Fits, Ranked
Arizona Cardinals
Just about everything that could go wrong for the 2022 Arizona Cardinals did go wrong, and that includes their quarterback suffering a serious injury. Kyler Murray tore his ACL late in the season, and current reports indicate that he probably won’t be ready for the start of the 2023 season. The team didn’t sign a quarterback in free agency, which was a weird move considering the uncertainty surrounding Murray’s injury. Of all the available free agents, Cam Newton is likely the best scheme fit remaining on the market. While he’s more of a physical runner compared to Murray, he would be able to step in and execute a similar offense without too many schematic changes.
Indianapolis Colts
As of this posting, the Indianapolis Colts are facing an uphill battle to obtain their quarterback of the future. Currently holding the fourth pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the team likely will not be able to get CJ Stroud or Bryce Young. If the team isn’t in love with Anthony Richardson or Will Levis, then perhaps they go back to a proven veteran in Cam Newton. Alternatively, the team could draft Richardson, a player that has drawn several comparisons to Cam Newton, and have him spend a year on the bench learning behind the former MVP.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons appear to be content going into the season with Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke battling for the starting quarterback job. While Ridder did show some signs of life down the stretch last year, it’s dangerous to put this much faith in a relatively untested third-round pick. Heinicke, meanwhile, is an adequate backup, but the past two seasons have proven that he’s nothing more than that. If Newton’s arm is back to its old self, he’d easily be the best quarterback on the roster, and his imposing physical form makes him a great fit for Arthur Smith’s run-heavy philosophy.
Washington Commanders
Current Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has had plenty of opportunities for a Cam Newton reunion over the years, but perhaps this is the time it finally comes to fruition. Much like the Falcons, it’s hard to imagine a world where the Commanders land a top quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft. That being said, Washington is less likely than Atlanta because they have already signed Jacoby Brissett to compete with Sam Howell.
Baltimore Ravens
Needless to say, Cam Newton will not sign with the Ravens unless something happens to Lamar Jackson. As of this posting, Jackson has yet to receive any serious interest from other teams, although the Colts are reportedly considering pursuing the quarterback. If Jackson ends up elsewhere, then Cam Newton is easily the best free agent quarterback to fit the scheme.
Main Photo: Kim Klement – USA Today Sports
