Bill Belichick has yet to internally name a Week 1 starting quarterback
On a number of occasions since drafting Mac Jones back in April, Bill Belichick has deemed Cam Newton as the Patriots’ starting quarterback. There was some debate about whether those statements were a general preview of the season or only true in the moment. On Monday that question was finally answered.
Following the Patriots’ joint practice with the Philadelphia Eagles, Newton was asked if Belichick has told him he will be starting the season opener against Miami. Initially, Newton met the question with hesitation, pausing before saying “you know the answer to that question.”
After some pushing from reporters, Newton finally responded. “I don’t know what y’all want me to say. No. You know that. You know he hasn’t said that. So for you to just ask a question – it is what it is.”
“Every single day I’m coming out here with the anticipation to just get better, and that’s the only thing that I can do,” Newton continued. “So I can control that. But as far as somebody else’s analogy or interpretation of what Week 1 is, I’m trying to focus on what tomorrow brings and even the adjustments for tonight’s meetings.”
Tying into an earlier question about one of his recent Instagram posts, Newton concluded by saying “there’s no hidden motives or things like that…everything you know, I know.” He added that “each and every day, I don’t necessarily care about who’s starting. I mostly care about making sure that I put the best product out there for me, and I know Mac [Jones] is feeling the same way, and I know Brian [Hoyer] is feeling the same way.”
Jones spoke after Newton, and was asked if it’s his goal to start Week 1. “You never know when your time’s going to come, so I’m just ready to keep working,” he replied. “Obviously, I have a lot of work to do. That’s very clear. But I’m going to keep working every day.”
The Patriots still have a ways to go before any decision needs to be officially made. Week 1 isn’t until September 12.
MORE: Cam Newton clarifies Instagram post
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].
