The reigning number one overall pick is officially under contract. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Panthers have agreed on a four-year, $22 million contract with Cam Newton. The deal, which is fully guaranteed, also includes a fifth-year, non-guaranteed option worth $14 million.
NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora was right on the money. His sources told him earlier in the month that Newton’s contract would have a total value around $35 million, give or take a few pennies.
Under the new rookie pay wage, Newton’s pact is a far cry from No. 1 overall picks of years past. As a basis for comparison, quarterback Sam Bradford received a $78 million deal with $50 million in guarantees.
Even though he lost valuable practice time with the lockout claiming the entire offseason, Newton will head into camp with a fair shot to win the starting job.
It’s inevitable that Newton will eventually take over. Otherwise, Carolina wouldn’t have gambled on him with the hopes he can become the face of the franchise.
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