Ian Rapoport reports that there are currently no talks between the Panthers and QB Cam Newton regarding a long-term extension.
According to Rapoport, “there is a fear” that NFL teams will try to use the same structure as the deal signed by the 49ers and QB Colin Kaepernick for quarterbacks moving forward.
Rapoport’s sources mentioned that Newton’s next contract could pay him more per year than what Kaepernick is receiving from San Francisco, but added that “Guaranteed money is what counts.”
Carolina picked up Newton’s fifth-year option which means they will owe him $14.666 million for the 2015 season if they are unable to work out a long-term deal before then. It’s worth noting that this salary is only guaranteed for injury.
Newton, 24, is coming off of a solid 2013 season in which he completed 61.7 percent of his passes for 3,379 yards, a career high 24 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He also contributed another 585 yards rushing and six touchdowns on the ground.
Pro Football Focus rated Newton as the No. 15 quarterback in the league last season.
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