The Charlotte Observer believes Panthers GM Dave Gettleman's first order of business this offseason will be to extend Cam Newton's contract. Newton is entering the final year of his rookie deal and is coming off his best all-around season. When asked Tuesday, Gettleman declared Newton as the Panthers' franchise quarterback by saying, "Yes, no seven-second pause. Yes, he is. He proved it this year. He flat proved it." Beat writer Joe Person thinks the five-year, $76 million extension Matthew Stafford signed with the Lions this past year will be a starting point in negotiations from Newton's camp.