Bengals FA Terence Newman: To Still Play or Retire?
Oct 12, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Terence Newman (23) against the Carolina Panthers at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals and the Panthers tie in overtime 37-37. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Terence Newman had contemplated retirement at one time, but it seems he wants another shot at the NFL. He reportedly visited the Minnesota Vikings on Monday and the New England Patriots yesterday. Although retirement is still an option, it looks like he may have options heading into this season.
Minnesota and Mike Zimmer almost seem too perfect if her were to sign there. Mike Zimmer was Newman’s defensive coordinator for two of his three seasons with the Bengals and his four seasons in Dallas. His best season with the Bengals was under Zimmer in 2012 when he recorded two interceptions, two forced fumbles, ten pass deflections, and four tackles for loss.
New England would give Newman a shot at winning a Super Bowl, something he hasn’t done in his 12 NFL years. Although he would be playing for arguably one of the most hated franchises, he would be chasing something every player dreams of, a ring. He wouldn’t be guaranteed to start, but with the team having lost Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner, it seems he could fill that veteran cornerback role.
The third option would be to retire. He is 36 years old and is on the down side of his career. He has been paid several times and could walk away from the game and not look back. He’s produced 12 impact seasons, but hasn’t played a complete season since 2010, his closest coming in 2012 with 15 games. Walking away is definitely an option and one nobody would blame him for doing so. Many people could argue that he should step away now after a solid season and before anybody can say he should have retired earlier.
One of Newman’s best traits is that he is passionate about the game and loves every moment. If he plays another season, it most likely will be outside of Cincinnati and we wish him the best of luck.
Next: Bengals Depth Chart: Offensive Preview