Carolina Panthers let Cam Newton seek trade, decision doesn't appear mutual

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The Carolina Panthers appear to be ready to move on from quarterback Cam Newton after announcing Tuesday that they have granted him permission to seek a trade after an injury-ridden season, a decision Newton says he was “forced” into.

General manager Marty Hurney had a conversation with the 30-year-old quarterback and his agent to talk about the end of his tenure in Carolina, according to the team’s website.

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"Cam is one of the all-time greats in Panthers history," team owner David Tepper said. "If you ask any of our fans for some of their most memorable moments, I'm willing to bet that most of them would include Cam – electrifying plays, giving away footballs after touchdowns, fun celebrations and big wins. His competitiveness and drive are rare.”

Tepper continued: “He's unique and I wish him all the best."

But the decision did not appear to be mutual.

Newton took to Instagram to comment on the Panther’s post, saying he “never asked for it” and was instead “forced” into it.

“Stop with the word play,” he wrote in the comments' section of the team's Instagram page. “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.”

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Newton has suffered several injuries that have affected his ability to play since 2016.

He only played two games last season after suffering a lisfranc fracture in his left foot during the preseason.