New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton has made it clear that he has a chip on his shoulder going into the 2020 NFL season. Cornerback Stephon Gilmore is now doing what he can to help his new teammate get acclimated to the system.

For years, the ‘Patriot Way' has served as a proving ground for former NFL stars to either get their careers back on track or continue toiling away in obscurity. Stephon Gilmore said during an appearance on the Bakari Sellers Podcast that Newton must be sure to channel his energy toward becoming part of the culture:

“There’s one thing I know about playing in New England. You have to be mentally strong… You have to be very hungry,” Gilmore said. “Everyone gets treated the same there. It’s no superstars, no nothing. So, if something don’t go right, someone’s gonna get on you, and we’re gonna correct it. So, no egos. It’s a team. The one common goal is to win and I feel like the Patriots [do] that well.”

Stephon Gilmore certainly has plenty of experience with Newton's situation after signing with the Patriots ahead of the 2017 campaign following his stint with the Buffalo Bills. He has since emerged as a two-time, first team All-Pro and reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

Although Newton has already been deemed as the clear-cut starter heading into training camp, he will need to prove as much to head coach Bill Belichick by beating out Jarret Stidham and Brian Hoyer under center. While there will surely be growing pains along the way, the former MVP's success could hinge on how he responds to the challenges ahead. Stephon Gilmore gave him a roadmap.

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