Cam Newton's Carolina Return: Strike the Drum!

Cam Newton, the former star quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, is rumored to be returning to Bank of America Stadium to strike the team's "Keep Pounding" drum. This symbolic gesture would precede the team's wild-card playoff game on Saturday, a significant event as it's the first home playoff game for Carolina since the 2015 season when Newton led them to Super Bowl 50.

Newton, who previously played for the Panthers from 2011 to 2019 and returned briefly in 2021, has had a complex relationship with the organization. He recently voiced his disappointment about not being included in team events in Germany with other club legends. Despite this, his potential involvement in striking the drum is being met with anticipation by current players like Jaycee Horn, who described it as "electric" and something that "will mean a lot to this organization."

While a team spokesperson has not officially confirmed Newton's appearance, social media posts featuring his voice and signature font suggest his involvement. Newton remains one of only three Panthers quarterbacks with playoff wins and is the sole MVP winner in franchise history, underscoring his enduring legacy with the team and city.