Cam Newton Replaces Brady
The New England Patriots finally made the move that so many anticipated happening for months. After Tom Brady left during free agency, the Patriots had done essentially nothing to replace him at quarterback. Simultaneously, former MVP Cam Newton had been available since his release early in the offseason. Finally, the connection has been made and the Patriots have found their Tom Brady replacement with arguably the next best free agent QB option this offseason. Much has been made about the player that Newton is now, as his production has declined since winning the MVP and going to the Super Bowl in 2015-16. In the four years since, Newton has just a 23-23 record, has thrown 44 interceptions and has had just one season with a completion percentage over 60.0%. So now that the Patriots have acquired Newton, the question becomes what caliber quarterback he is now.
Newton is only entering his age-31 season, during which most QB’s are still in their prime. Injuries have been a major concern, especially last season where he only played two games. However, the Patriots likely don’t need Newton to come in and be the MVP-level player that he was in 2015. New England had the best defense in the NFL last season and had mostly average QB play from Tom Brady. The main thing Brady excelled at was limiting mistakes and taking care of the football. All the Patriots really need Cam to do is just that, limit turnovers. A good way to limit turnovers on the football field is with a reliable pair of gloves. Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels are two of the best at what they do, and they will find a way to use Cam’s talent to their benefit. Many people will be doubters of Newton’s health and talent at this stage of his career, but come December the Patriots will likely be right towards the top of the AFC where they always are.
