One bold prediction for each AFC team in 2020

New England Patriots: The team will release Cam Newton

If Newton stays healthy he’s got a chance to lead the Patriots to a Super Bowl title. That’s a massive if though, the Panthers clearly didn’t think he was a good bet to enjoy a bounce-back campaign.

If Newton can’t get healthy then the Patriots are going to cut their losses and hand the offense over to Jarrett Stidham. There’s a larger chance of Newton getting cut than most fans believe.

For the record, this prediction does not claim that Stidham is going to seize the starting job and become New England’s franchise quarterback of the future. If Newton gets cut, it could open the door for Bill Belichick to spend a high draft choice on a new signal-caller in next year’s draft. There’s a lot of uncertainty about the quarterback position in Foxborough.

New York Jets: Denzel Mims goes over 1,000 yards receiving

The Jets didn’t have a ton of talent at receiver last season and losing Robby Anderson in free agency only made things worse. Drafting Mims in the second round was a clear effort by the franchise to give Sam Darnold a big-time weapon on the outside.

Mims has the athletic profile to make a relatively quick transition to the pro game. The Jets’ front office will do backflips if he gives them 1,000 yards receiving as a rookie. Interestingly, Mims’ ability to help the team right away could also have a big influence on Darnold’s long-term prospects in Gotham. If he doesn’t show signs of major improvement this year the Jets could also be in the market for a new quarterback in next year’s draft.