Even though the Patriots’ first season following Tom Brady’s departure did not go as planned, the final results did not stop coach Bill Belichick from praising starting quarterback Cam Newton.
According to Ben Volin’s The Boston Globe, Belichick shone on Newton during the off-season, offering great criticism of the veteran defender’s effort made during the 2020 campaign. The only area of concern for Belichick about Newton’s performance is the decrease in arm strength. Newton has undergone several surgeries on the throwing shoulder in recent years.
Newton, who turns 32 in May and is currently a free agent, started all but a game for New England last season, going 7-8 as a starter. He completed 65.8% of his passes for 2,657 yards, eight touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He also added 592 yards on the ground and 12 running touchdowns.
Belichick would have liked to train Newton, however, and Volin reports that a 2021 meeting would not be a surprise. The Patriots can also select a defender in this year’s draft and currently have the 15th choice.
Check out the latest NFL news and notes:
- Volin also reports that, despite comments from 49ers general manager John Lynch, many around the league still expect the team to make quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo available for a trade.
- Lamar Jackson and the Ravens have begun to discuss an extension of the contract, but the two sides remain at a distance. (Ben Volin, The Boston Globe)
- Former Giants offensive lineman Pat Flaherty is returning to the organization as a consultant. (Dan Graziano, ESPN)