Cam Newton to Hit “Keep Pounding” Drum at Panthers’ Wild Card Game

The Carolina Panthers are set to host the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday afternoon in the opening game of NFL Wild Card Weekend, and a familiar face will help energize the crowd in Charlotte.
The team announced Wednesday that franchise legend Cam Newton will hit the iconic “Keep Pounding” drum before the game, fulfilling the hopes of Panthers fans.
Newton, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in Panthers history, has not attended a game since the 2021-22 season. His return marks a significant moment, as his relationship with the franchise had reportedly been strained in recent years.
In 2025, Newton expressed disappointment over not being invited to join other team legends on a trip to Germany.
With the Panthers hosting their first home playoff game in a decade and making their first postseason appearance since the 2017-18 season, Newton’s presence is a fitting tribute to the team’s history.