Cam Newton made his much-anticipated debut for the Carolina Panthers on Sunday and while he wasn't exactly the best player on the field for his squad, there's also no denying that the former league MVP made a significant impact for the Panthers as they took down the Arizona Cardinals in a 34-10 blowout win. Bill Belichick, Newton's former coach with the New England Patriots, has spoken out about the 32-year-old's return to action and at this point, it is clear that the Pats shot-caller is more than happy to see Newton back on the field.

When asked to give his thoughts on Newton now that he's taken his talents back to Carolina, Belichick had nothing but praise for his former star quarterback:

“It was great when they signed him,” said the Patriots coach (h/t Mike Reiss of ESPN). “Sounds like he had a great day yesterday. So, always happy for Cam. Appreciate everything he did. He was a wonderful guy to coach and be around.”

Cam Newton played just one season under Belichick in New England and it didn't exactly pan out as most previously expected. The Patriots decided to release the three-time Pro-Bowler earlier in the season and the Panthers were quick to take back their former cornerstone superstar.

On Sunday against the Cardinals, Newton went 3-of-4 on his passes for eight yards, while also logging a touchdown in what was a memorable second debut for the Panthers. He may no longer be the show-stopping star he once was, but Newton should still play a key role for Carolina the rest of the way.