At this stage of New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton's decorated career, money is not his main motivator.
Despite receiving minimal interest on the free agent market — resulting in a one-year, incentive-laden deal with the New England Patriots — Newton isn't thinking about hitting bonuses or inking his next contract when he drops back in the pocket.
Instead, the 2015 MVP says he's playing for one thing (besides winning, presumably): respect.
“Money at this particular point in my career is not important,” Cam Newton said Tuesday on WEEI's ‘The Greg Hill Show‘. “Let's be honest: I've made money, but for everything that I play this game for, I haven't received [respect] yet. And that's why I'm playing. So it's not about money, it's about respect.”
The 31-year old's deal for 2020 has a base salary of $1.05 million and includes $3.75 million in on-field incentives with an a maximum value of $7.5 million if the Patriots win another ring.
As Newton pointed out, as long as he continues to play well, the money — like the respect — will come.
“Surprisingly but true, and factual enough, if I do what I'm supposed to do, as I'm expected to, that will not be a topic of discussion moving forward,” the three-time Pro Bowler said. “A wise man once said — and that wise man is my father — all blessings don't come in financial means. So for me, if I do what I'm supposed to do, everything else will take care of itself.”
Cam Newton has thrown for 552 yards on 45-for-63 passing with one touchdown and one interception through the first two games. He's also leading the Patriots (1-1) with 122 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
When asked about the possibility of re-signing with New England, Newton had words of praise for his new organization, calling it “therapeutic”, but he wants to keep the focus on football.
“You must understand: That is literally the last of my worries. If we had to put an analogy in it, that is probably under so much work at my desk that I'm not too much really focused on,” Cam Newton explained. “I do admire and love the culture of the Patriots…Yet through it all, I'm going to let the cards shuffle the way they shuffle and do the things I can control.”
Newton and the Patriots will host the Las Vegas Raiders (2-0) on Sunday at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.
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