Why the Titans Should Sign Cam Newton to be Their Starter

With possible trade rumors surrounding the Titans and their veteran signal-caller Ryan Tannehill, the Titans could be looking to move in a different direction. With Tannehill's contract ending after this upcoming season, Tennessee may want to accumulate assets while they still can. The Titans already have their future quarterback on the roster in second-year quarterback Malik Willis.

With Willis still raw (QB rating of 42.8 last season), the Titans should find a short-term starter who can show Willis the way of the road. Perhaps a free agent signal-caller like Cam Newton could be of assistance. Newton did state on his YouTube channel that he would like to back up Malik Willis if he got the opportunity to.

Let's dive into why Newton could be a huge help for Willis in his development.

Newton's Experience

Let's not forget that Cam Newton is a former NFL MVP (2015). He also led the Carolina Panthers to their first-ever Super Bowl that year. He was a 3-time Pro-Bowler with the Carolina Panthers and arguably their best player in franchise history.

What makes Newton one of the most electrifying playmakers in NFL history is his running ability. In 11 career NFL seasons (2011-2021; 10 with CAR, 1 with NE), Newton has the NFL record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (75). He also has an NFL record for most rushing attempts by a quarterback (1,118).

He was one of the league's best prime signal-callers of the last decade. In his last full-time season as a starter (2020 with the Patriots), he finished 3rd in the NFL among quarterbacks in rushing with 592 yards (statmuse). He also led all quarterbacks in rushing touchdowns with 12 that year.

Newton is still a quality signal-caller. He might not be 2015 Cam Newton anymore. He can still lead the offense. Remember, the Titans have finished in the top 5 in rushing offense in three of the last four years, according to ESPN Stats & Info. He would make the Titans rushing offense that much more dangerous while playing at a cheaper rate too.

Why Signing Newton Would Help Willis and the Titans

His experience as a potent runner and an above-average thrower (all-time passing leader for the Panthers) could help Malik Willis grow into an eventual starter. Last season, in limited action (three games started), Willis completed barely 50% of his passes (50.8%) and threw three interceptions (zero touchdown passes). He also lost two fumbles while being sacked 10 times.

Newton could start for the first half of the season or maybe longer, and Willis could take notes. The former MVP could show the former Liberty star how to run an NFL offense consistently and how to take care of the football. Willis just needs more time to learn. It would be extremely beneficial for him to learn from a quarterback with a similar skillset.

Again, it could be at a cheaper rate too. At this point, the Titans need to focus on grooming their long-term starter in Willis. It would be wise to bring in a veteran signal-caller as accomplished as Cam Newton. It makes total sense.