CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – The Panthers have found a replacement for Cam Newton — and it didn’t take long.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity on Tuesday because the deal cannot be announced until the start of the league year today.
The Panthers announced earlier Tuesday they were parting ways with Newton, their No. 1 overall pick in 2011.
The 27-year-old Bridgewater started five games last season for the Saints, going 5-0 while completing 68% of his passes with nine touchdowns.
Bridgewater previously worked one season in New Orleans with Joe Brady, who is now Carolina’s offensive coordinator.
Carolina general manager Marty Hurney said Tuesday via Twitter the team is giving the 31-year-old Newtown permission to seek a trade.
Newton was quick to respond to the Panthers on social media, saying he didn’t ask for a trade.
“Stop the word play!!” Newton tweeted. “I never asked for it!! There is no dodging this one; I love the Panthers to death and will always love you guys!! Please do not try and play me or manipulate the narrative and act like I wanted this: You forced me into this.”
