Emily Soto
Backfield to Backpacks: Newton Stays Busy
Cam Newton's season -- and perhaps his career -- with the Carolina Panthers is over, yet he continues to stay a active away from the field.
The 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player announced Tuesday on Twitter his role in developing a high-end backpack for VINTA Supply, a New York City-based company specializing in premium travel accessories.
Newton described himself as "creative partner for a limited edition premium backpack, the TYPE-II C1N.
“It’s designed for a person like me, with a constant schedule, who doesn’t stop and wants a fashionable, high-quality bag that’s functional for everyday life,” said Newton said in a release. “It’s customizable, stylish, and every feature has been so well thought out and designed. That’s what VINTA embodies: travel made easy. I know they’ve done it for me, and I know they’re going to do it for everyone who buys one.”
Newton has extra time on his hands these days.
The Panthers placed Newton on Injured Reserve last week, shutting him down for the season while he recovers from a Lisfranc injury. Speculation continues to swirl as to if it also marked the end of his career with Carolina. His contract expires after the 2020 season and releasing or trading Newton would mean a difference of about $19 million with regards to the salary cap.
According to Douglas Larsen, VINTA Supply's co-founder and lead designer, this isn't a one-time collaboration and that plans for more C1N generation products are already underway. That makes sense, as Larsen also said that Newton is now an equity holder in the company.
But the relationship didn't form thanks to an agent seeking opportunities for his client or a company looking for a high-profile pitchman.
"Cam’s introduction to VINTA came organically," Larsen said. "He purchased one of our bags and loved the design, style and functionality. So as an entrepreneur with an interest in fashion, he reached out to collaborate with us."
VINTA describes the backpack as "great for holiday gift guides, it’s particularly suited to style-conscious travelers, photographers, tech start-up types and anyone who likes premium luggage."
Preorders for the backpack, which retails for $254, began Tuesday morning. It's available in two colors -- sand and berry.
