Cam Newton Blasts Panthers' Disrespectful Week 10 Decision

As part of their game against the Giants in Munich, Germany, the Carolina Panthers honored some of their franchise icons. Luke Kuechly, Steve Smith, Thomas Davis, and Jonathan Stewart were all there as part of the occasion. There was one major absence: the former MVP and Panthers legend Cam Newton.

Newton finally addressed the franchise's decision not to include him in the process. Demonstrating visible disappointment in the organization, Newton admitted that his feelings were hurt.

NFL News: Cam Newton Disappointed in the Panthers' Disrespect

On his podcast, 4th and 1, Newton said he was hurt seeing his former teammates being honored at the stadium. He also recalled a time when he visited the Bank of America Stadium with his son and saw no pictures of himself anywhere.

This is completely unacceptable from the Panthers organization. Carolina already treated him poorly when he was a player, cutting him once he got healthy after he put his body on the line for the team over and over again.

Newton is arguably the best player in franchise history. He is the only MVP to come out of Carolina and is behind the best seasons in the Panthers history. It is hard not to feel emotional when you hear him, say "damn, bro, I gave this city everything".

The Panthers' excuse for excluding Newton is based on a technicality. Because Newton never officially filed his retirement papers, he is considered a free agent. Making him part of the stadium and honoring him in ceremonies would technically be considered tampering.

At the same time, this is a convenient excuse. It is obvious that Newton played his final game in the NFL. He hasn't suited up since 2021 and has shown no intention to make a return. The Panthers could easily make the case against this claim if they really wanted to honor Newton. The fact that they haven't done so speaks volumes about the misplaced priorities of this organization.

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