Ex-GM expects Patriots to be the ‘surprise team’ in NFL with Cam Newton

Patriots, Cam Newton
NFL Analysis Network

The New England Patriots were long thought to be rolling with Jarrett Stidham in a starting quarterback role following Tom Brady’s departure…well, at least until Cam Newton signed in free agency.

It took a while until for Newton to ultimately land with the Patriots. Currently, he is competing with Stidham and Brian Hoyer for the starting role, and while nothing is guaranteed, Newton is expected to earn the role of starter at quarterback.

According to Mike Sando of The Athletic, an ex-NFL GM made it clear that Newton is a ‘pretty good fit’ with the Patriots, assuming Cam gets his timing down on short to intermediate timing throws. The former executive also expressed his belief that New England will win 10+ games.

“You could put Cam as a four, but I think he is a three and if he’s healthy, and if he buys into what they do, I think he’s got a chance,” the ex-GM said. “I’ve always thought he was a baller. He’s tough. He adds an element a lot of guys don’t add. If he can get short to intermediate timing down, he’s going to be a pretty good fit.”

Newton appeared in just two games last season before being shutdown due to a foot injury. The Carolina Panthers ultimately opted to move on from earlier in the offseason in favor of signing Teddy Bridgewater to a three-year, $63 million contract.

How the Patriots decide to utilize Newton within their offensive system will be fascinating to see. He provides an element of mobility and arm strength that Brady simply lacked but doesn’t bring as much efficiency on short and intermediate throws.

There is reason to believe Newton can improve his execution on the type of throws that have made the Patriots such an effective offense for many years. New England has some intriguing weapons he has to work with in order to make it happen between Julian Edelman, Mohamed Sanu, and N’Keal Harry.

The Patriots will look to remain atop the AFC East standings despite the Buffalo Bills making their best effort to surpass them. Cam Newton’s play will be a crucial determining factor in New England’s efforts.


NFL Analysis Network provides news updates and analysis about the New England Patriots along with all 32 teams in the league. Find us on social media (Twitter & Facebook) to stay up to date with our content.

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