Robert Kraft Sheds Doubt on Cam Newton's Status as Patriots Quarterback
By Max Staley
With Tom Brady gone, the New England Patriots entered last season as one of the most intriguing teams in the NFL. The product the team eventually put on the field was not nearly as compelling. Brady was replaced by former league MVP Cam Newton, who had his worst season as a professional, throwing for 2,657 yards with 8 touchdowns to 10 interceptions.
The team apparently saw enough to give Newton another shot, re-signing him to a one-year deal. But judging by this quote from Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Newton's grasp on that starting job appears to be tenuous at best.
One way or another, we have to get that position solidified.
To be fair to Newton, he didn't exactly have much help last season. The team clearly recognized that, paying top dollar for pass-catchers like Hunter Henry, Jonnu Smith, Nelson Agholar and Kendrick Bourne in free agency.
Now that he's got some actual NFL talent to work with, Newton will need to show significant improvement in order to remain this team's starter.
Robert Kraft asked about QB position: "I think in fairness to Cam [Newton], I am not sure he had the proper weapons around him last year and then he got COVID and there were a lot of things that happened."
— Ryan Hannable (@RyanHannable) March 31, 2021
Added he doesn't believe Jarrett Stidham has gotten a real shot yet.
While Newton is out of excuses, the Patriots might be out of options. The San Francisco 49ers have showed no desire to move Jimmy Garoppolo via trade, and landing another established veteran QB feels like a pipe dream at this point. Barring a shocking trade, New England has virtually no chance to acquire a top-tier rookie passer with the No. 15 pick in the NFL Draft.
For better or worse, Newton and the Patriots are likely going to be tied at the hip for at least one more season, regardless of what Kraft thinks.
Armed with what should be a top-10 defense and a revamped offense, the Pats will still only go as far as Newton can take them. The oddsmakers don't think that'll be too far. WynnBET gives New England +3500 odds to win the Super Bowl next year, tying them for the 15th-best odds alongside the Dallas Cowboys.