On Tuesday August 31, the New England Patriots announced that they were releasing quarterback Cam Newton. This means that rookie Mac Jones will be starting for the team this year. This is shocking news, as most people believed that Newton would be the starter! Coach Bill Belichick said that Newton was going to be the team’s starting QB, but Newton had to reestablish that role or someone would need to play better than he did. Jones has accomplished that, according to Belichick. Since teams were supposed to trim their roster down to 53 men by August 31 at 4pm, it is likely that this is the reason behind the release of Newton.
Newton was signed by New England in the 2020 offseason after Tom Brady left to go to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played 8 years with the Carolina Panthers, winning the NFL MVP in 2015. Brian Hoyer is supposed to be Jones’ backup, and the Pats have 3rd-year QB Jarrett Stidham on the physically unable to perform list. Stidham is a possible backup/third string option later in the year.
Personally, I am kind of surprised by the move, as the Patriots only gave Newton one season. Although Jones did play better in the pre-season, I have my doubts about him.
The Patriots had re-signed Newton to a one-year deal in March 2021 that included $3.5 million in guaranteed money. He would’ve received $5.1 million if he was the backup, with incentives that raised the amount of money to $13.6 million if he was the starter and the team made the post-season. What do you think?
Source:https://www.espn.com/nfl/_/id/32119363/sources-new-england-cut-cam-newton ,
