The New England Patriots still have a couple of weeks to make a decision at quarterback, but the competition may already be over. With time winding down before the regular season, NFL Network's Mike Giardi gave a revealing update on the battle between Cam Newton and Jarrett Stidham.
Based on Jarrett Stidham being limited again today, I’d say the ship has sailed on the Stidham vs. Cam Newton QB competition. Newton took majority of reps in both 7-on-7 and in team until late in the day, when he and Hoyer split reps. #Patriots @nflnetwork @AroundTheNFL
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) August 23, 2020
Early in New England's training camp, Stidham suffered a leg injury that has caused him to miss some snaps with the offense. As a result, Newton has received the majority of reps with the starters in practice.
When the Patriots signed Newton back in June, it was assumed that he'd be handed the starting job immediately. However, Bill Belichick was hesitant to name the former NFL MVP the guaranteed starter to begin the season. Regardless of what Belichick said, Newton had an obvious edge over Stidham to secure the No. 1 spot on the depth chart.
But with Stidham battling an injury, his chances to beat out Newton drop even further. Barring an unforeseen event, it seems as if it is Newton's job to lose moving forward (which was expected by many).
Of course, the one concern surrounding Newton entering the 2020 season is his health status. While Newton underwent foot surgery last December, the Patriots are more worried about his multiple shoulder surgeries. Since 2017, the All-Pro quarterback has undergone two surgeries to his shoulder.
Entering training camp, New England was expected to give Newton and Stidham chances to earn the starting gig under center. Now, with Stidham being limited by an injury, the competition seems to be much in Newton's favor.
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