The New England Patriots seem content heading into the 2020 NFL season with former fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham as their projected starting quarterback. However, this does not mean Stidham will immediately receive reps with the first team.

Mike Giardi of NFL Network said it is possible Stidham starts camp with the second team as something of a proving ground.

Giardi also hinted the Patriots might still take a look at signing free-agent quarterback Cam Newton (via Logan Mullen of NESN):

“Look, I think there are so many different ways to look at this and the way they are approaching this,” Giardi said. “… I think Bill (Belichick) — I think they like Stidham. (But) I think Stidham hasn’t proven to them — obviously how could he — that he’s ready. “So I think it’s going to be incumbent upon him to beat out whoever the other quarterback is, whether it is Brian Hoyer or (hypothetically) they make a commitment to Cam Newton. Although I would say if Cam Newton is in here they probably feel good about his health and he’s probably going to be the starter.”

Patriots personnel have spoken highly of Stidham, but he also just has four pass attempts to his name. Alternatively, Hoyer has plenty of familiarity with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels' system, having played five seasons with the Patriots.

This is not necessarily an indictment of Stidham as the future signal-caller with the Patriots. But as Giardi alluded to, Bill Belichick is one of the most demanding head coaches in football.

Belichick will likely hope a sense of competition inspires Stidham as the Patriots prepare for life without Tom Brady.