NFL Rumors: Despite Struggles, Patriots Keeping Faith In Cam Newton

KEY POINTS

Cam Newton's struggles may affect his NFL future with the Patriots
Belichick is sticking with Newton as starting QB against Bills
Newton knows he needs to do better to help the Pats this NFL season

Cam Newton is back in action. However, he hardly helped the cause of the New England Patriots.

The 31-year-old was the starting quarterback for the Pats against the San Francisco 49ers, but his return after testing positive for COVID-19 barely made a difference.

The former NFL MVP was 9-of-15 for 98 yards and three interceptions, according to Yahoo Sports. He was taken out of the game in the second half after committing a third errant pass, with the Pats trailing, 30-6, at the time. New England went on to lose, 33-6.

In the eyes of critics, Newton’s performance speaks a lot. It was the second straight game where he performed below par.

Now, such raises questions on Newton’s future with the team. The Patriots have lost their third consecutive game and are now 2-4 in the NFL standings.

"I have to deliver," Newton said via NFL.com. "I haven't done that. One thing that can't happen is I can't allow myself to feel sorry for myself. I know what the issue is. You just have to attack it and do better."

Even with Jarrett Stidham, the Patriots were already in a huge hole. But despite his struggles, coach Bill Belichick is not entirely giving up on the 2015 NFL Player of the Year.

The Pats coach said in the post-game that he intends to still stick to Newton as his starter when the Patriots face the Buffalo Bills.

Asked if he expects Cam Newton to remain the starting QB, Bill Belichick said, "Yeah, absolutely."
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) October 25, 2020

Though Belichick is giving Newton all the chances to redeem himself, the most pressing question is what the future holds.

Newton agreed to a one-year deal with the Patriots where he could make up to $7.5 million.

The Atlanta native was the logical choice but had big shoes to fill. He is tasked to succeed Tom Brady who opted to move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Before his entry, things were not looking good for the Pats with Brian Hoyer and Stidham tasked to fill the quarterback void. Their chances got raised a bit when Newton came on board.

However, it remains to be seen as to how far the 31-year-old play caller can improve New England’s chances this NFL season.