CLEVELAND — While he feels he's still capable of being a starting quarterback, Cam Newton says he's willing to take a backup role. And when it comes to potential destinations, the 2015 NFL MVP has the Cleveland Browns at the top of his list.
In a video posted to his official YouTube channel on Wednesday, the 33-year-old Newton discussed his willingness to take on a backup role as he's remained un-signed since the conclusion of the 2021 NFL season. In doing so, he identified Cleveland as one of his preferred landing spots, thanks largely to his relationship with Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.
"As I made list, I was saying to myself, 'Who would be some guys who that I could serve?'" Newton said. "Who could I take up under my wing and in essence allow them to be the face, but also I would just want to help them in any type of way?"
At the top of Newton's list was Watson.
"I would backup Deshaun Watson," the Auburn product said. "It goes without saying, me and Deshaun Watson's relationship -- he was on my 7-on-7 all-star team. I've grown to admire the person, the athlete that he is. Going through a lot of turmoil, but I believe that's behind him and I know that I can provide services for him on the field, as well as off the field."
That "turmoil" that Newton referenced includes several allegations of sexual misconduct, including harassment and assault, during Watson's time as a member of the Houston Texans. While Watson was never criminally charged and has maintained his innocence, he did serve an 11-game suspension to open the 2022 season following an NFL investigation that determined he violated the league's Personal Conduct Policy.
While the addition of a high-profile backup such as Newton would certainly be an intriguing fit for the Browns, it's worth noting that Cleveland re-signed Josh Dobbs earlier this offseason and also have 2021 third-round pick Kellen Mond on its roster. Despite his relationship with Watson, it seems unlikely the Browns would use their resources to sign Newton, who completed 54.8 percent of his passes for 684 yards, four touchdowns and five interceptions, while adding 230 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 47 yards in eight games (five starts) with the Carolina Panthers in 2021.
As for the other signal-callers who Newton would be willing to backup, the 2010 Heisman Trophy winner mentioned Baltimore Ravens free agent Lamar Jackson, Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, Tennessee Titans quarterback Malik Willis, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell and incoming rookies C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson.
You can watch Newton's full video in the player below.