PODCAST: Why Bill Belichick might be working to retain Cam Newton

Bill Belichick’s recent comments might speak to his plans for Cam Newton.

Bill Belichick knows he hasn’t put together the best roster from his New England Patriots’ tenure. The coach admitted earlier this season that he’s dealing with dead cap from the end of the Tom Brady era, when the Patriots sold out to try to win Super Bowls.

And perhaps that’s why he’s been so staunch in defending Cam Newton, whether it’s dismissing any suggestion of a quarterback controversy or brushing off a costly interception in Week 15. Belichick may recognize Newton isn’t getting the support he deserves. And the coach could be interested in convincing Newton, who is playing on a one-year deal, to return for 2021 when the Patriots could have more talent at Newton’s disposal on offense. The Patriots will have a first-round pick, likely to fall in the middle of the order. And New England has a surplus of cap space, which they could use to add a tight end or a receiver to help the Patriots’ passing game, which is last in the NFL in touchdowns.

We discuss that idea — and so much more — in this week’s version of the Patriots Wire podcast.

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