Is Patriots quarterback Cam Newton's shoulder not yet 100%? David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Newton has played so poorly over the past two games that people are starting to wonder if he may be dealing with an injury, but the New England Patriots quarterback insists that is not the case.

Following Sunday’s blowout loss to the San Francisco 49ers, Newton was asked about his throwing mechanics and how his right shoulder feels. The former MVP said his energy level has been an issue but not his health.

Newton appeared to short-arm several throws on Sunday, and many people felt he was throwing the ball similarly to when he battled shoulder issues with the Carolina Panthers. Newton has had two surgeries on his right shoulder, though he was said to be 100% health when the Patriots signed him.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick said Sunday that Newton is “absolutely” the starter going forward despite being benched for Jarrett Stidham against the Niners.

Newton completed 9-of-15 passes for 98 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions in the 33-6 loss. He also threw threw picks against the Denver Broncos last week, giving him five interceptions and no touchdowns over his past two games. The Patriots are reportedly looking to make a significant move before the trade deadline, but Newton needs to play much better to keep his job.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
If Lions HC Dan Campbell's assessment of WR is accurate it could mean trouble for opponents
NFL reporter predicts Cowboys' plan for QB Dak Prescott
Cavaliers make decision on head coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s future
Two young stars get hefty bonuses for making All-NBA teams
Mavericks star duo joins exclusive club with Game 1 win
Mavericks ride 'Luka Magic' on both ends late to win Game 1
Panthers shut out Rangers 3-0 in Eastern Conference Final opener
NBA announces 2023-24 All-NBA teams
Star Padres infielder to miss significant time with shoulder injury
LeBron James, Charles Barkley passionately defend Caitlin Clark from 'petty' haters
Roger Goodell discusses factors for possible 18-game NFL season
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has intriguing comment on his contract situation
Celtics toying around with surprise Jayson Tatum move in conference finals
Former teammate warns Tee Higgins about pitfalls of playing on franchise tag
Watch: Timberwolves and Mavericks trade dunks in third quarter
Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner tempers expectations for Juan Soto extension
Canucks' Rick Tocchet wins 2024 Jack Adams Award
Incredible Orioles streak finally comes to end against Cardinals
Raiders QB shares surprising reason for switching jersey number
New Jersey Devils to hire just-fired head coach to lead bench

Want more Patriots news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.