We’ve seen this before.
It’s 2nd and Goal and Cam Newton takes off from the line of scrimmage, breaks the plane and the pylon for the touchdown. He then rips his helmet off and screamed “I’m back” to the crowd.
We’ve seen variations of a touchdown and celebration 70 times. We’ve seen this enough for it to be routine. However, this rush to the end zone hits different. This was the cumulation of all of the emotions that Newton stored inside for months after being cut by New England. Months of sitting idle and seething at the fact that quarterbacks who were less talented were in the league. All of those emotions were in that touchdown and scream.
For the Carolina Panthers, Newton’s touchdown served as a reminder. A reminder of what he’s meant to this franchise regardless of perception, and a reminder of what he still can do on the field.
Granted, the idea of Newton returning to his 2015 MVP form is presumptuous and unrealistic. However, expecting him at, at least 55 to 60 percent of that form is fair and with the talent on the current Panthers’ team around him – on both sides of the ball, it may be enough to run off some wins.
In terms of fan engagement, saying that Newton’s return is energizing is an understatement. In fact, Newton is leaning into fan engagement now more than ever. In hopes to grow the fan base, Newton, in conjunction with his production company and organizations in Charlotte, are identifying and reaching out to fans who don’t have access to the games- giving away 50 tickets ahead of their matchup this Sunday against Washington.
“I’m going to give away 50 tickets to the people who have rarely been to a game or have never been to a game,” Newton said recently. “I’m partnering with the Panthers and doing this. I’m adamant that this Sunday is important to us. We need to reclaim Bank of America Stadium. I know the success hasn’t been there, but we ain’t talking about the past. I’m talking about the things here moving forward.”
Through his play on the field and his outreach in the community, the impact that Newton has on this franchise and the Charlotte area is undeniable.