Panthers release Newton
The Cam Newton era is over in Carolina, as the Panthers released the 30-yearold quarterback after nine seasons.
The move became a mere formality after the Panthers made it clear last week they were moving on from Newton by giving him permission to seek a trade and then agreeing to a three-year, $63million contract with freeagent quarterback Teddy Bridgewater about 90 minutes later.
On Monday night, Newton posted on his Instagram account that he was “hungrier” now because he is “unemployed.”
Newton now can sign with another NFL team immediately.
All NFL facilities will soon be closed to personnel — with some limited exceptions — in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a memo to clubs outlining the new rules put in place to ensure the league “continues to conduct itself in a responsible way,” and that teams “operate on a level playing field.”
In a memo obtained by The Times, Goodell said the guidelines take effect at 6 p.m. local time Wednesday, and that in two weeks the league will assess the advice from medical experts and public health authorities to determine whether it’s safe and appropriate for the facilities to reopen.
— Sam Farmer
The Chargers added some needed depth at linebacker by reportedly agreeing to a one-year deal with Nick Vigil.
A third-round draft pick in 2016, Vigil spent the past four seasons with Cincinnati. He started all 16 games last season, finishing with 111 combined tackles . ... The Chargers also announced small changes to their logo and uniforms next season.
— Jeff Miller
Wide receiver Travis Benjamin found a new home, agreeing to a one-year deal with San Francisco, according to reports. He spent the last four seasons with the Chargers, the last two interrupted by injury.
— Jeff Miller
Mike Thomas, a Rams receiver for the last four seasons, signed a free-agent contract with the Bengals, according to the NFL’s transaction wire.
— Gary Klein
Wide receiver Robby Anderson agreed to terms on a two-year contract worth $20 million with the Panthers . ... Seattle agreed to a one-year contract with Phillip Dorsett . ... Case Keenum signed his three-year, $18million contract with Cleveland . ... Tight end Tyler Eifert and Jacksonville agreed to a two-year deal.