Maximizes The Defense’s Window
It’s difficult to no longer have a quarterback like Tom Brady, in general. Failing to replace such a talent can result in a real decline in success for the team as a whole. Considering the New England Patriots have an elite defense, that would be a waste.
With such a high-level defense, it’s important to not have to go through those growing pains with the quarterback position. Stidham has been able to learn behind Brady and that’s certainly beneficial, but nothing beats actual game experience.
There may be somewhat of a period where Newton is working his way back into form, but that’s different from being a first-time starter. He already knows what to expect, especially when it comes to succeeding in the playoffs considering his Super Bowl appearance.
The best case scenario is that Newton manages to find his previous form while the defense sustains its success from 2019. The outlook for the Patriots if both were to occur would make them one of the more intriguing contenders in the AFC during the upcoming season.