CBS Sports - wrote:
The question is whether or not the Panthers want to continue the Newton era or
start anew. Money may play a role in the Panthers' decision, as Newton is set to
enter the final year of his five-year, $103.8 million contract. Instead of paying
Newton in 2020 and offering him a longterm deal in 2021, the Panthers may elect
to trade Newton this offseason while using a first-round pick on a quarterback.

Carolina has already paid out the majority of Newton's bonus money so his
contract shouldn't have any hurdles in it should they attempt to trade him.
If Carolina made the decision to release Newton, they would incur just $2 million
in "dead" salary cap charges.