Leadership is one of the most important traits to help make up for Tom Brady’s absence for the New England Patriots.
It’s something the Patriots couldn’t fully get with Jarrett Stidham, and it’s something that Cam Newton inherently has. The 31-year-old has spent his time in the league and he knows how to keep the positive energy flowing.
New England sits with a 4-5 record that was looking extremely dim when there was two less wins sitting in the column. Newton’s ability to handle adversity and push through the growing pains has allowed the younger players to do the same over the course of the season.
While on a call with reporters, Josh McDaniels praised Newton’s ability to lead through hard times.
“I think Cam is a tremendous example of what a leader is supposed to be,” he said, transcribed by WEEI. “Leadership isn’t easy and being out in front, playing quarterback in the National Football League certainly is a challenge. There’s a lot of highs and lows that you’re going to experience. Cam has never wavered from his work ethic, from his attitude, from the way he approaches practice, the effort that he gives on a daily basis whether it be a meeting, a film session, a walkthrough, or any part of what we’re doing on the field. He is unselfish. He is accountable for any mistake that he makes.
“He’s incredibly honest and communication with Cam is literally, this is exactly the kind of communication you’re looking for when you’re a coach. You ask a question, you get a honest response. If he makes a mistake, he tells you what it was. There’s no better example for younger players than to see a guy do that.”
Newton failed to produce points on three potential game-winning drives, but had clutch drives to pull away with wins in the last two games.
“I think we’ve seen from progress from Cam,” McDaniels said. “Certainly, we can improve in a lot of areas as we move forward, but I think his accountability, his ability to take responsibility for the good and the bad, I think has been a great example for all of our guys on our team to see. Really a joy to coach and look forward to continuing the process.”
The Patriots are set to play the 2-7 Houston Texans on Sunday, with hopes of evening out the record back to .500.
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