Newton reiterated that he doesn't believe there are 32 quarterbacks in the NFL better than him, but acknowledged that his path back into the league may be as a backup. He then went on to mention a number of quarterbacks he'd be willing to back up, which included Deshaun Watson, Sam Howell, Malik Willis, Lamar Jackson, and several others. He also said he'd be fine with backing up rookies C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young, and Anthony Richardson. In the video posted to Newton's Twitter account, it's clear the veteran quarterback is hoping to squash the narrative that he's unwilling to serve as a backup. Still, he needs to find a suitor that's willing to give him a chance, which might not come until after the NFL Draft, if at all.

Newton last threw an NFL pass in 2021 in his return to the Panthers. The 11-year veteran, three-time Pro Bowler, and 2015 MVP appears intent on continuing his robust NFL career, likely leveraging the numerous starting quarterback positions available around the league in a bid to return to the game. Newton has not had any ties to NFL franchises over the previous year.

Newton made a brief return to Carolina last season -- a move that likely closed the curtains on his tenure with the Panthers and perhaps his NFL career. Despite reports from Newton himself that teams are interested in signing him, little has materialized that would lead us to believe he'll be on an NFL roster come Week 1. He struggled as a passer in his return to Carolina, throwing for just 684 yards on 126 passes while tossing four touchdowns to five picks. He showed some giddy up as a runner, rushing for 47-230-5, but there's little doubt that the 33-year old's best days are behind him. The Browns have begun working out other options in response to a potential suspension of Deshaun Watson. Veterans A.J. McCarron and Josh Rosen were both worked out by the team ahead of training camp.

“I think we’re still having thoughts,” were Fitterer's opening words. “We have to see how this works out here throughout the spring. ... We’re texting a little bit. The lines of communication are open. ... We are going to have a discussion at some point but we’re just not quite there yet, but we’ll see how it goes. The more competition we have at that position the better.” Newton would be, at best, the No. 3 behind Sam Darnold and Matt Corral, but considering the uncertain state of that duo, Carolina could choose to carry three quarterbacks in 2022. Ineffective though he was last season, Newton remains a better option than P.J. Walker.