Matt Rhule dodges questions about Cam Newton’s future with Panthers

Anyone hoping for clarity on Cam Newton’s future with the Carolina Panthers in Matt Rhule’s introductory press conference came away disappointed on Wednesday.

While the new Carolina head coach praised Newton and seemed enthusiastic about the quarterback’s attitude, Rhule said he does not plan to make any major announcements about the long-term future of any player until meeting and speaking with owner David Tepper and GM Marty Hurney.

Rhule says he talked to Cam Newton yesterday. "He didn't want to talk about the past. He wanted to talk about the future."
Didn't want to get into the long-term plan with Cam or any player until he's had a chance to talk with Hurney and Tepper.

— Joe Person (@josephperson) January 8, 2020

On the surface, Newton would seem to be an ideal fit to run Rhule’s offense, but one can understand the coach not wanting to box himself in with some sort of public pronouncement on day one of the job.

Last we heard, the Panthers were undecided on Newton. It made sense to hold off on any decisions until the new coach was in place.

Newton is due to make $18.6 million next season, and a decision is due by March.