Sometimes, it takes newly-acquired players a little bit of time to ease into their surroundings. That does not appear to be the case with Cam Newton.
Following the draft, the Patriots signed undrafted free agent quarterbacks J’Mar Smith and Brian Lewerke in an effort to fill their quarterback room. However, the need for multiple bodies at the quarterback position was significantly lessened when the Patriots brought in Newton. That seems to be why, in part, New England cut the rookies this week. With Newton in the room and the shortage of practice during the coronavirus pandemic, the Patriots will have even less time to teach rookies. So New England will roll into camp with Newton, Jarrett Stidham, and Brian Hoyer.
It makes sense that the acquisition of Newton would trim down the quarterback room. With a player of his caliber, as well as the resume he brings to the table, the thought of Newton low on the quarterback depth chart would be unrealistic. Instead, it appears that Newton has taken center stage in the quarterback room.
This is a unique situation. In many cases, newcomers generally ease their way in with their new team. For Newton, he will be thrust into a quarterback battle with Jarrett Stidham. After ending things unceremoniously with the Carolina Panthers, he seems more motivated than ever. Now, he needs that motivation to carry on through training camp. In the dog days of July, every rep is going to mean a little extra.
With Newton in New England, it’s becoming clear that this is now a three-horse race. Now, the real fun begins, as each of the quarterbacks will get the chance to prove themselves in a training camp and preseason unlike any other. For Newton, this may be the most important camp of his career.
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