The Patriots reportedly may not be done adding at QB
Last season, Cam Newton was the unquestioned starting quarterback of the Patriots, even as things got rough late in the year. Part of that was due to a lack of competition on the roster, with Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer struggling early in training camp and the regular season.
With the news Newton will be returning for the 2021 season, the question becomes who else (if anyone) will join him in the quarterback room? Jarrett Stidham and Jake Dolegala remain under contract, but will Bill Belichick bring in any real competition for the starting job?
That’s a possibility, according to Adam Schefter. Shortly after Newton’s signing was announced, Schefter reported that “doesn’t preclude them from making another QB move in the weeks to come.” NFL Network’s Mike Giardi followed this up with the report that “the way this deal is structured in no way, shape or form takes the Patriots out of the running for another QB.”
Given Newton’s $14 million contract, it’s tough to see the Patriots paying another veteran at or near Newton’s level to join him in New England, especially with the other holes on their roster. More likely, if the team wants to add another quarterback, they’ll do so through the draft to add a younger player with more upside who Newton can mentor. Of course, these reports are hardly guarantees, and there’s always the possibility of Newton being the unquestioned starter in Week 1.
Ultimately, we can’t know the full context of Newton’s signing until after the draft in late April. Until then, get ready for plenty of speculation and a month and a half of fighting the urge to overreact.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
