Cam Newton is returning to Carolina Panthers. Here are the details

Breaking up is hard to do. 

After almost two years apart, quarterback Cam Newton is back with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year deal, according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. 

The Panthers confirmed the signing Thursday.

As the team's all-time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns and rushing touchdowns, Newton joins the Panthers in a desperate quarterback situation. 

Despite a solid 3-0 start, Panthers starting quarterback Sam Darnold struggled in recent weeks, including a 24-6 loss to the New England Patriots Week 9. Darnold was also injured during the game, suffering an incomplete fracture in his throwing shoulder. He will now miss four to six weeks.

Carolina selected Newton No. 1 overall in the 2011 draft and enjoyed success with the QB until injuries impacted his game in 2019. Newton spent last season with the New England Patriots, but was released this season after 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones won the starting job.

NFL Network was first to report the deal, adding it could be worth a reported $10 million for the rest of year with $4.5 million fully guaranteed and $1.5 million roster bonus.

This is a developing story. USA Today Sports+ producer Emily Olsen contributed to this report.