Ron Rivera Contemplates Over What Could’ve Been Had Cam Newton Stayed Healthy

The Carolina Panthers back in 2015 had all the ingredients needed to establish a dynasty. A franchise QB in Cam Newton, a competent head coach in Ron Rivera, and a roster full of superstars such as Luke Kuechly, Charles Johnson and Josh Norman to name a few. The Panthers were destined for success. And as they stormed into Super Bowl 50 with a 15-1 record, they were within touching distance of lifting the franchise’s first-ever Lombardi Trophy. 

But as fate would have it, the Panthers would have to wait. Their 24-10 loss to the Peyton Manning-led Denver Broncos meant that Ron Rivera and his side would have to do it all over again. But the future looked bright for the Panthers. And with all the talent at their disposal, they were destined to win the Super Bowl. But unfortunately for them, their loss to the Broncos signaled the start of their decline. 

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Injuries woes for star QB

With all the talent in their roster, the Panthers’ showstopper was undoubtedly their evasive quarterback, Cam Newton. Newton was a star. Ever since being drafted first overall, the QB from Auburn took the league by storm. Then Panthers head coach Ron Rivera knew that he had a quarterback for the future. Sadly though, injuries plagued Newton’s career and he failed to live up to the heights many believed he could achieve. 

While talking to the Charlotte Observer, Rivera said he often thinks about what could’ve been if Newton had stayed healthy. 

“I do. I honestly do… He’s the kind of guy that when he was healthy and things were rolling, man, the momentum would build,” said Rivera. 

“In 2016, when (Newton) got hurt, we got a little bit back in 2017. We had an early start in 2018, but then the injuries just took a toll. And so I always wonder, just what would have happened? But that’s the nature of this game. You’ve got to be able to move on and unfortunately, that’s where we are in terms of that,” he added. 

Cam Newton and a future full of uncertainty 

After being released by the Panthers earlier in the offseason, the New England Patriots snapped up the 2015 MVP on a one year contract. Coach Belichick and the Patriots hoped that Cam would fill the void left by Brady. But unfortunately, things haven’t gone quite to plan. Throwing just 5 touchdowns for 10 interceptions, Newton has been a far cry of his former self. Out of the playoffs for the first time since 2008, the odds of the Patriots signing up Newton for another year are slim. 

Now on the wrong end of 30, time is running out for Cam. The injuries over the years have slowed down the once-promising quarterback. And unfortunately for Cam Newton, the odds of him lifting the Super Bowl keep getting slimmer which each snap he takes. 

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