The New England Patriots decided to put an end to the 2015 NFL MVP Cam Newton's free-agency wagon. Head coach Bill Belichick decided to give Newton an opportunity with a tag of $1.05 million with $550,000 guaranteed at signing. Despite his credentials and veteran experience, the starting job won't be outright given to the former Heisman Trophy winner.
During an interview with Kyle Bailey of WFNZ, All-Pro wide receiver Steve Smith chimed in on the quarterback competition in New England:
“Right now, it's Stidham's job to lose. I'm pretty sure the guy who was on the roster prior to getting a free agent guy that signed the league minimum that's incentivized would say money talks and BS walks,” said Smith. “And when you are signing through free agency and you are signing a league-minimum – $550,000 guaranteed and close to $6 million in incentives – that is a ‘Earn It'. That is a ‘Prove It' deal, that is a bet on yourself. And not everybody is built for that, and not everybody understands what that entails. And each ‘bet on yourself' type of contract manifests itself into something different.”
A former No. 1 overall pick, Newton has a 71-59-1 career record as a starting quarterback. The former Auburn Tiger has thrown for 29,041 yards (completing 59.6% of his passes) with 182 touchdowns and 108 interceptions. He also led his former Carolina Panthers team on a trip to Super Bowl 50.
He will be joining a young Patriots quarterback room that currently includes Jarrett Stidham, Brian Hoyer along with rookies Brian Lewerke and J'Mar Smith.
The three-time Pro Bowler has been battling several injuries in recent years which ultimately limited his productivity. Now that he's healthy and ready to go, Patriots nation is eager to see if he can bring the franchise back to Super Bowl contention.