Cam Newton's Surprise at Philip Rivers' Colts Contract: A Slap in the Face?
Cam Newton, a 36-year-old quarterback, expressed his surprise and frustration when he learned that the Indianapolis Colts had signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers to their practice squad. Newton, who is eight years younger than Rivers, questioned why the Colts didn't reach out to him when they needed a quarterback.
On his show, Newton stated that Rivers' signing was 'almost like a slap to my face.' He further questioned the process, asking if Rivers had sent any signals about his availability and why he was being asked to do something that others hadn't done. Newton also mentioned that he hadn't officially retired and was still working out, indicating his availability.
The Colts' decision to sign Rivers was surprising, given their desperate need for quarterback depth. With Daniel Jones out for the season, Anthony Richardson on injured reserve, and Riley Leonard suffering a knee injury, the team's options were limited. Rivers, despite being 44, had a better season in 2020 than Newton's recent performance with the Carolina Panthers. Newton, a three-time Pro Bowler and MVP, is known for his playmaking abilities, but his recent form has been underwhelming.
The Colts' move raised questions about their strategy and the availability of younger quarterbacks like Newton. While Rivers' experience is valuable, the team's desperate situation and the age difference between Rivers and Newton sparked discussions about the fairness of the decision and the potential impact on younger players' opportunities.
