There has been plenty of speculation regarding what to expect from the New England Patriots' decision to sign quarterback Cam Newton. The Washington Football Team's head coach Ron Rivera has since issued a warning for those that are overlooking the move.

Rivera is certainly familiar with what Newton brings to the table for New England given their time together with the Carolina Panthers. He expressed his confidence during an appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show” that the former NFL MVP is poised for a potential resurgence in the 2020 NFL season, via WEEI:

“The one thing I’ve always said is don’t bet against Cam, especially when he has something to prove,” Rivera said. “Coming off the 2014 season, even though we got in the playoffs in 2014, he didn’t play his best. In 2015, he played unbelievable. In 2016, he had an off-year and was hurt, and then in 2017, he had a great year that got us into the playoffs. In 2018 and 2019, he was hurt.”

“I think he has something to prove. I think he’s going to prove something. I like the fact that coach (Bill) Belichick and what they want to do offensively, I think that’s going to suit (Cam). I think Josh McDaniels is creative enough to use Cam’s skill set to the best of his abilities. I’ll watch them. I’ll be excited to watch them.”

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Rivera's optimism for Newton is understandable considering their history in Carolina. After all, he paired up with the former No. 1 pick when he began his first stint as head coach and they eventually reached a Super Bowl in 2015.

Despite Newton's struggles in recent years, Rivera's confidence in his former player clearly has not waned. He now find himself in an ideal situation for a comeback as part of head coach Bill Belichick's system with the Patriots.

Of course, the onus will fall on offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to formulate a different approach that takes advantage of Newton's skill set. His mobility should allow much more flexibility for McDaniels that the team did not have with Brady.