The Cam Newton experiment hasn’t exactly worked the way either side would’ve liked it to.
The former MVP signed a one-year, incentive-laden deal in the offseason that paid the quarterback up to $7.5 million in 2020. However, he won’t collect all of those bonuses considering his struggles.
Through 12 games, Newton has thrown for just 2,172 yards with five touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His 78.9 passer rating is good for 31st among quarterbacks with at least five starts.
With so much up in the air for the Patriots’ future at the position, NBC Sports’ Mike Florio and Peter King took a look at potentials to replace Newton next year. The latter believes that current Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford could be the next guy in New England.
“That’s an interesting one because Matthew Stafford’s probably got five good years left. Bill Belichick’s probably got five good years left,” King said. “So, that would actually make some sense to me. But again, the problem is the money you got to pay him. Do the Patriots want to pay a quarterback 20% of their salary cap? I just don’t think so.”
Stafford, who suffered a rib injury that knocked him out of last week’s game, has always been a great arm talent. This season, he has thrown for 3,522 yards, 22 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 13 starts. And, while the Lions haven’t exactly performed at the level that they hoped, that’s not on Stafford.
Detroit’s history has been littered with players who were never able to capitalize on their ability. From Barry Sanders to Calvin Johnson now to Stafford, the list continues.
Stafford’s contract could be the main thing keeping the Lions from moving on from him. They would accelerate $19 million of dead money to the 2021 season if they were to move on from him during the offseason.
New England would probably have to pay a high price for the quarterback who’s still playing at a high level. However, that price seems more than fair to have a quarterback who can push the ball down the field at a successful clip.
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