The news that the Patriots were letting go of quarterback Cam Newton definitely caught many off guard. However, it didn't take long for New England to move on.

The Patriots have now signed former Dallas Cowboys backup QB Garrett Gilbert to join their practice squad.

Before joining the Patriots, Gilbert was in a heated battle for the QB2 job behind Dak Prescott in Dallas. Gilbert had given fellow QB Cooper Rush a run for his money, but the Cowboys ultimately chose his peer. Gilbert spoke out before the fateful decision.

Via Dallas Morning News:

“Truly though, I’m proud of what I put on tape. I’m going to continue to work every single day. The preseason games are over now, but in practice, just continue to work and improve on being the best quarterback I can be and staying ready for my opportunity.”

Although his opportunity was cut short in Dallas, another one quickly sprung up for him in New England.

Garrett Gilbert signed on with the Cowboys last season after Dak Prescott suffered his season-ending injury. He played just one game, going 21-for-38 for 243 yards, with one touchdown and one interception thrown.

With Cam Newton's release, the Patriots have now gone all-in on rookie QB Mac Jones.