Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton trades before the 2020 NFL Draft
By Ian Higgins
Los Angeles Chargers receive: Cam Newton (QB), 2020 Round 5
Carolina Panthers receive: Russell Okung, Travis Benjamin, 2020 Round 2
Philip Rivers is no longer the answer. The hall of fame quarterback has clearly hit a wall while surrounded by talent, and there is no excuse. Weapons such as Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Hunter Henry, Melvin Gordon, and Austin Ekeler can not go to waste on a non-playoff team. Newton has an opportunity to change that fortune.
Gordon and Ekeler have built a wonderful combination backfield of the ground and air production with the two. Ekeler would be a great designed-checkdown option to keep Newton conservative, and Gordon will now have a second rushing threat to move linebackers out of position and alleviate pressure on LA’s offensive line (as mentioned in the Tampa Bay slide).
Keenan Allen has been a perennial pro-bowler, underacknowledged due to his lack of team success and highlight plays. Allen shows his worth with technical route-running and reliable hands, as well as enough athleticism to break free. Mike Williams has been one of the best young big-body receivers since coming out of Clemson. His body control and leverage on high-balls can go toe-to-toe with any corner in the league.
Newton can not only add a new dimension to the Charger’s offense but could also bring about change to the (currently non-existent) LA fanbase. Los Angeles fans have had a reputation of being very focused on success, and bailing when that success falters.
dark. Next. LSU, Georgia fill up 2020 NFL mock draft
With a new stadium soon to be built and the Rams locked into a massive contract with Jared Goff and a losing roster, LA fans can attach themselves to the Newton hype and bring back Chargers fans.