Cam Newton would re-sign with the Patriots, but would the Patriots want him?

Cam Newton has a desire to return to the Patriots but New England might have other plans. 

If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. Right now, it’s hard to tell what was broken last season with the New England Patriots.

The 7-9 AFC East franchise stumbled late in the first year without Tom Brady. Cam Newton did his best to keep the team on a course for success, but with a limited receiving corp and multiple opt-outs, it felt as if a sub .500 record is the best the team could ask for.

Newton now will be up for free agency one year after being released by the Carolina Panthers. Recently on an interview with I Am Athlete Podcast, the former No.1 pick expressed his interest in returning to Foxborough for another season and working with Bill Belichick.

“Yes. Hell yes,” Newton said. “I’m getting tired of changing. I’m at the point in my career where I know way more than I knew last year.”

Newton might want to return, but the feeling might not be reciprocated this offseason from the Patriots’ front office.

Should Newton return to New England?

According to a report from The Athletic’s Jeff Howe, New England is considering all its options this offseason to upgrade the quarterback position. Howe also reported that the Patriots could be interested in trading for San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, and other players.

In his lone season as the starter, the Pats went 7-8 with Newton. He completed 65.8 percent of his passes for 2,657 yards, eight touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Newton also rushed for 592 yards and 12 touchdowns. Newton had five games of plus 200-yards passing and finished with four games under 100 yards through the air.

New England must decide soon what they intend to do this offseason. They have yet to rule out the possibility of re-signing Newton, but what would it be? A one-year deal? Maybe two? Is that due to the hope he’ll be the franchise guy or would he be the merge bridge option?

Newton’s limitations passing held New England back in 2020. He wasn’t the biggest problem on the roster though. For now, the Patriots are being diligent but so is Newton. This could be a deal that gets done soon or never is to be spoken of again.