Cam Newton wasn't guaranteed Patriots starting job

Former MVP Cam Newton signing with the New England Patriots came as a shock to many, especially because he didn't exactly plan on taking a backup role.

The former Carolina Panthers signal-caller will be joining Brian Hoyer, Jarrett Stidham, J'Mar Smith and Brian Lewerke on the Patriots' quarterback depth chart. So, it's become quite clear that there will be a quarterback competition once training camp opens up next month.

Newton, who was released by the Panthers in March, certainly would love to become New England's starter in the post-Tom Brady era, but he, apparently, wasn't guaranteed the position, according to The Athletic's Jeff Howe. 

The 31-year-old played just two games last season after suffering a foot injury and wasn't great during the 2018 campaign, so it remains to be seen whether or not he has enough gas left in the tank.

If Newton beats out Stidham, it won't be that surprising... especially because he's made 124 career starts, made a Super Bowl appearance and was the league's MVP.