Cam Newton’s return to Bank of America Stadium came with the kind of reception reserved for franchise cornerstones.
Per The Charlotte Observer, on Saturday, January 10, the Carolina Panthers honored the former MVP quarterback as their “Legend of the Game,” bringing Newton back into the spotlight ahead of the team’s first home playoff game in a decade.
Newton was introduced during the pregame ceremony and tasked with one of the organization’s most symbolic duties: pounding the Keep Pounding drum. As he stepped onto the field, the sold-out crowd rose to its feet, delivering a sustained standing ovation that echoed through the stadium.
Newton lifted the mallet, paused to soak in the moment, and then slammed it into the drum, energizing the building before kickoff.
Earlier in the day, Newton had already made his presence felt across Charlotte. He recorded a live episode of his 4th & 1 podcast at a fan tailgate event, where hundreds lined up hours in advance to see him.
Addressing the crowd, Newton spoke candidly about what the city and the franchise still mean to him. “I’m overwhelmed with passion, joy,” he said. “It’s an honor to be able to have given this city half of what you guys have given me.”
Newton also acknowledged the personal significance of returning to a Panthers game in a new role. “This is a pinch-me moment,” he said during the live podcast. “For the first time in my life, this is me experiencing a Panthers game without being a member of the Panthers.”
Once the ceremony concluded, attention shifted to the field as Carolina hosted the Los Angeles Rams in a Wild Card matchup. The playoff appearance marked the franchise’s first since the 2015 season, when Newton led the Panthers to an MVP campaign and a Super Bowl berth.
Newton’s high-profile homecoming also arrived amid ongoing conversation about his NFL future. Previously, he drew headlines after reacting to news that the Indianapolis Colts had contacted Philip Rivers for a potential return. On his podcast, Newton questioned why teams would reach out to a retired quarterback while overlooking him.
“For 44 years old, coming out of retirement… it’s almost like a slap in my face,” Newton said, noting that he has never officially retired. “I did not and will not [retire] because of an opportunity like this.”
When asked if he would work out for a team that called, his response was direct: “Yeah.”